Cuban art closely followed the turbulent history of Cuba. As political and social conditions changed, so did the art and culture of the country. Incredibly versatile and diverse, Cuban art encompasses colonial iconography, European Cubism and Impressionism, Mexican muralism, and African and North American elements. The beginnings of the Cuban rich artistic legacy can be traced back to its colonial-era and modern Prerevolutionary art movements.
Colonial Influences
During the colonial era, the first Cuban artists mimicked the styles popular in Europe of the time. Depictions of religious characters and stories are typical of the period. One of the first known artists Jose Nicolas de la Escalera is known for painting black Cuban slaves alongside intricate religious scenes. Other artists, like Vincente Escobar, painted portraits rooted in the European Classical style traditions.
The genre of costumbrismo, inspired by the Haitian revolution and independence achieved in 1804. emphasised the simplicity of Cuban everyday life. Spanish born artist Victor Patricio de Landaluze was the most notable figure of the movement painting idealised visions of…
