In a captivating tribute to HavanaS architectural legacy, artists Sonia Almaguer Darna and Denys San Jorge have unveiled their exhibition, The Havana that harmed me, the Havana that I left you. This innovative showcase reinterprets iconic structures such as the Cathedral and the Capitol, blending photography and painting to highlight the city’s rich cultural history. Almaguer, a talented photographer from Holguin, captures the essence of human behavior and overlooked details, while San Jorge enhances these images with vibrant artistic elements. Together, they pay homage to renowned cuban architects like Joaquín Weiss and Eugenio Raynieri, reminding audiences of the profound impact of architecture on Havana’s identity. this exhibition not only celebrates the city’s eclectic beauty but also serves as a poignant reminder of the artistic spirit that continues to thrive in Cuba.
Interview: The Impact of Architecture on Artistic Expression in Havana
Time.news editor: Today we have the pleasure of speaking with architectural expert Julio César Pérez Hernández, who has keen insights into Havana’s architectural legacy. Recently, artists Sonia Almaguer Darna and Denys San Jorge launched their exhibition titled The Havana that harmed me, the Havana that I left you. Can you provide us with an overview of this exhibition and its significance?
Julio César Pérez Hernández: Absolutely. This exhibition is a striking homage to Havana’s rich architectural heritage. Almaguer and San Jorge reinterpret iconic structures, such as the Cathedral and the Capitol, through a blend of photography and painting. Thes artists are not only showcasing the architectural beauty of Havana but also capturing human behavior and the frequently enough-overlooked details that tell the story of the city and its people.Their work is essential in highlighting how deeply intertwined architecture is with the identity and cultural history of Havana.
Time.news Editor: That’s fascinating! How do Almaguer and San Jorge pay tribute to iconic Cuban architects like joaquín Weiss and Eugenio Raynieri in their exhibition?
Julio César Pérez Hernández: They do this by drawing inspiration from the architectural styles and philosophies that these architects embraced. By merging Almaguer’s poignant photographs with San jorge’s vibrant artistic enhancements, they create a dialog that respects the legacy of these architects while making it relevant to contemporary audiences.This approach reinforces the idea that architecture is not static; it evolves and influences artistic expression.
Time.news Editor: What do you think the exhibition communicates about the current state of artistic spirit in Cuba?
Julio César Pérez hernández: The exhibition serves as a reminder that the artistic spirit in Cuba is vibrant and resilient, despite various challenges. It showcases how contemporary artists are continuously finding ways to engage with and reinterpret ancient narratives through their work. Almaguer and San Jorge’s exhibition emphasizes that Cuba’s artistic culture thrives by embracing its architectural heritage while innovating and responding to modern contexts.
Time.news Editor: How does the artistic reinterpretation of architectural structures affect public perception of these buildings in Havana?
Julio César Pérez Hernández: By presenting these structures through a fresh lens, artists encourage viewers to appreciate the stories and the emotional weight behind these buildings. It shifts the focus from merely seeing them as historical artifacts to experiencing them as living entities that connect individuals to their cultural past. This can foster a deeper appreciation and understanding among locals and visitors alike.
Time.news Editor: For those interested in the intersection of architecture and art, what practical advice can you offer when visiting such exhibitions?
Julio César Pérez hernández: When visiting exhibitions like The Havana that harmed me, the Havana that I left you, I recommend engaging with the artwork actively. Take time to view each piece up close and consider what architectural elements are being emphasized. Reflect on how these structures relate to your own experiences in the city.Additionally, it’s beneficial to read the accompanying narratives or guides that provide context about the artists’ intentions and the historical significance of the buildings featured.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights,Julio. This dialogue highlights how exhibitions like this not only celebrate Havana’s eclectic beauty but also enrich our understanding of its architectural identity.
Julio César Pérez Hernández: It was my pleasure. Exhibitions like this inspire us to cherish and engage with the rich tapestry of Havana’s cultural and architectural history.
By focusing on the interplay between art and architecture, we can foster a greater appreciation for Havana’s unique identity and the stories that its buildings tell.