We found out that there has been a focus of resources in the area of art training and support in Cuba. We saw the evidence of this all over Havana. The craft market was huge but by and far the numbers of stalls displaying art pieces outdid those with kitschy tourist bits. I purchased a number of small oil canvasses for six of the grands which I brought home and had framed. The bright colours and fantasy creatures captured my imagination! Talking to young woman who created these made purchasing them that much better. There is a process for taking signed pieces out of the country. Partly to keep important works in the country but to also have the Cuban artists credited for their work. None of these are signed pieces and are meant for the tourist trade. She was quite clear that she should not be credited for these but was delighted that I might use them in my own work.
I started with a shimmery mauve cardstock, which I stamped all over with a wild rose type flower using Dusty Concord Distress Ink. I printed out scans of several of the small pictures, cut out the creatures and have collaged them onto the page. I really was tempted to add glitter but as is truly is more reflective of what you see in Cuba. My scans are more muted than IRL but I think you get a good sense of the vibrancy.
