ART | CUBAN ARTISTS' BOOKS & PRINTS

This week, as President Obama talks about a new day and a new beginning between U.S. and Cuban relations, I begin exploring beyond the vast musical culture of Cuba and discover an interesting exhibition at The Grolier Club of New York—America's oldest and largest society for bibliophiles and enthusiasts in graphic arts. On May 20th, the Cuban Artists' Book & Prints 1985 - 2008 show opens—highlighting contemporary book arts in Cuba. The show features the work of over thirteen artist who for twenty years, have openly expressed their experience of life in Cuba. Having survived cultural politics, difficult living conditions, and shortages in resources—including basic materials like paper—these handmade works are created with leaves, cloth, wood scraps, and other found objects. The opening coincides with the fiftieth anniversary of the Cuban Revolution, but celebrates the intense independence of these artists who have navigated cultural complexities while creating these works over the past two decades.

Cuban Artists Books and Prints 1985-2008 will be on public view at the Grolier Club from May 20 - August 1, 2009 with the exception of May 25 and July 4, when the Club is closed for the Memorial and Independence Day holidays. Hours Monday-Saturday, 10 AM - 5 PM. Open to the public free of charge. More information.