In the image, a shirtless man appears on the right side, slightly out of focus, with his eyes closed and an expression of introspection or calm. To his left, a cluster of hands fans outward, overlapping in various directions. The hands, open and extended, form a shape resembling wings or a dynamic fan, suggesting movement or symbolic expansion. The contrast between the solitary figure and the multitude of hands evokes a tension between internal reflection and external projection. This imagery speaks to themes of liberation, support, and spiritual connection, characteristic of the visual narratives explored in Cuban contemporary art. Here, the human body becomes a medium to convey transformation, identity, and collective experience, central elements of this artistic tradition.

In Deambulantes, Ricardo Fabián Fernández Díaz presents an evocative exploration of the human figure, employing an expressionist vision that transforms the body into a medium for reflecting on the complexity of existence. His characters, drawn with unsettling intensity, appear to inhabit a liminal space—caught between seeking meaning and the uncertainty of becoming. The artist does not idealize anatomy; instead, he stretches and distorts it, revealing both its fragility and its enduring resilience.

Technically, the exhibition is remarkably solid. Fernández Díaz showcases a mastery of drawing, balancing meticulous detail with the raw energy of his lines. The choice of monochrome heightens the dramatic tension of the series. By forgoing color, the artist emphasizes contrast, light, and shadow as tools to shape not only form but also emotion. This deliberate aesthetic enhances the atmosphere of unease and vulnerability surrounding the characters of Deambulantes.

The metaphor within this series is both stark and transparent. There are no embellishments to soften the impact of its message. These figures resemble specters, wandering between the real and the symbolic, between flesh and thought, evoking the weight of uncertainty in human existence. In these bodies, there is a struggle between presence and dissolution—a dynamic of fragmented and reconstructed identities with each stroke of the artist’s hand.

With Deambulantes, Ricardo Fabián Fernández Díaz affirms his ability to fuse refined technique with profound conceptual depth. His work not only demonstrates exceptional skill in drawing but also offers a sensitive and critical perspective on the human condition, inviting viewers to reflect deeply on their own sense of being.

  • dates February 7, 2025
  • venue Online Exclusive