This exhibit showcases rich and nuanced themes in colorful, evocative, and at times poignant illustrations found in the book arts of Cuban artist Rolando Estévez, highlighting his personal aesthetic and social responses to literature, art, and culture.
Mark your calendars for these associated events:
Cafecito and Lecture by Estévez and Professor Ruth Behar
September 30, 2015
4pm to 6pm
Hatcher Gallery
4:00pm – 4:30pm Cafecito
A bilingual cafecito hour directly outside the exhibit space. During this time, anyone in attendance will get to experience a traditional social and cultural Cuban event, the cafecito: afternoon coffee and conversation enjoyed by many Cubans while discussing an important topic. Only, this topic will be about Estévez 's books and art with the artist, Professor Behar, and the community all participating over delicious Cuban coffee. Tables for enjoying coffee and treats will be directly outside the room, so folks can leave their food/drinks there, as they peruse the exhibition throughout the event.
4:30pm - 5:30pm Lecture
Ruth Behar and our guest, Rolando Estévez will segue from the cafecito to the stage and lead a lecture on the exhibit and his work.
5:30 - 6pm Closing -- Reception
More lite snacks, drinks, and socializing will be available as we say our goodbyes to our esteemed guest.
October 2, 2015
Rolando Estévez: Bookmaking Workshop
3:00pm
Room 1644
School of Social Work Building
Students from all disciplines are invited to learn about the art and craft of bookmaking with prize-winning Cuban book artist Rolando Estévez. If you have a favorite poem or short text you would like to convert into a handmade book, please bring it to the workshop. We will also have poems and texts on hand. Art supplies will be provided as well as light snacks.
The Special Collections Library holds a substantial collection of Cuban artists' books spanning the titles from Ediciones Vigía, the Cuban artist collective, to the independent works of our showcased artist: Rolando Estévez, a founding member of the collective who now creates his book arts through his imprint, El Fortín. Victor Haim Perera Collegiate Professor of Anthropology Ruth Behar, a long-time colleague, friend, and intellectual and artistic collaborator with Estévez, brought Ediciones Vigía’s works to our attention many years ago, at which point we began actively collecting Cuban artists' books. We are now fortunate to have a major collection of the stunning works of Rolando Estévez, who is the leading book designer on the island and the recipient of Cuba’s prestigious national design award.
Sponsored by the U-M Department of Anthropology; Center for World Performance Studies; International Institute; LSA Dean's Office; Institute for the Humanities; and the University Library in conjunction with a research project on Bridges to Cuba led by Professor Ruth Behar, Department of Anthropology.