Exhibition of Enrique Martínez Celaya’s Art in Cuba

On February 15th, Cuba will host an exhibition featuring the captivating works of artist Enrique Martínez Celaya. In 2019, Martínez Celaya actively participated in the Detrás del Muro project as part of the 13th Havana Biennial, contributing the mesmerizing sculptural piece, The Sugar House.

The temporary exhibition, titled Los muertos llaman al alba, will be inaugurated at the Edificio de Arte Cubano, a prominent space within the National Museum of Fine Arts in Havana. This showcase brings together eight large-format masterpieces, meticulously crafted to encapsulate the essence of Cuba and the specific environment in which they will be displayed. Notably, Jorge Fernández Torres, the director of the institution, highlights in the accompanying catalog a distinct «articulation of a unique universe, with undeniable connections to many of his previous works» apparent in Martínez Celaya’s creations.

As a prelude to his return to Cuba and a focal point for the exhibition’s promotion, the artist has chosen the image of Los viajeros. This work resonates deeply within Cuban art, imagery, and spirituality. Fernández Torres elucidates, «The boat of the three Juans accompanying Our Lady of Charity floats in the canvas space, and the sacred image of the saint has been intentionally omitted,» underscoring the artist’s dedication to exploring the interplay between the present and the past.

Martínez Celaya’s prolific artistic production encompasses painting, drawing, sculpture, installation, video, photography, and various other media. Enjoying international acclaim, his work has found a home in significant public collections in the United States and Europe. Additionally, it has been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums across the United States, Mexico, Germany, Spain, Italy, Russia, and Australia.

Source: National Museum of Fine Arts

Translated by Luis E. Amador Dominguez