The series was inspired by my “New Years in Havana” trip in 2003. It was a cultural exchange with the country of Cuba. I was fortunate to meet with and visit the studios and homes of some the most famous Cuban artists, musicians and dancers.

One of the painters I met was a 70-year-old man who was known as the Picasso of Cuba. His home and studio were completely covered in mosaic tiles he had painted, broken and applied himself. A masterpiece… each shard of tile a tiny abstract painting in itself, placed strategically to tell the whole story.

My “Cuba” is a combination of my own hand printed fabrics, wood block printing, silk screen and acrylic paint. A hint of Picasso with antique treatments. It speaks to the of the poverty and vintage architecture there, equally it shows the vibrant spirit of the people, shown through their love of intense color and pattern everywhere in their lives. It also represents the pieces of my life at that time. Shattered and held together by glue each telling the whole story.

A self-portrait.

Marti Schmidt - March 2003