Cuban Mid-Century Design: A Modernist Regime

This book showcases the work of artists, designers, and architects who shaped Cuba's post-revolutionary era from the late 1950s to the 1970s, highlighting the country's transition from revolutionary promise to authoritarian retrenchment. The exhibition features nearly 100 works, including furniture, architectural renderings, and prototypes for a design for all ethos. It also includes examples by contemporary Cuban artists and designers who explore how this post-revolutionary aesthetic survives today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 07 May 2024
Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications

This comprehensive volume, spanning the post-revolutionary era of Cuba from the late 1950s to the 1970s, brings together a remarkable cohort of artists, designers, and architects who embodied the ideology of their time. Through their collective efforts, they not only shaped the country's trajectory but also intricately narrated its journey from revolutionary promise to authoritarian retrenchment.

Design and architecture played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's identity and cultural expression during this transformative period. Comprising nearly 100 works, including approximately 50 pieces of furniture, the exhibition and accompanying catalogue showcase seminal objects of functional design, architectural renderings, speculative prototypes for a design for all ethos, and key examples of art and graphic design that contributed to the prevailing zeitgeist of the era. Moreover, the book includes several examples by contemporary Cuban artists and designers who explore how this post-revolutionary aesthetic continues to thrive in the present day.

The post-revolutionary era in Cuba witnessed a surge of artistic and cultural activity, with artists and designers exploring new forms of expression and challenging traditional norms. The country's political climate, however, also played a significant role in shaping the artistic landscape, with restrictions and censorship limiting the freedom of expression. Despite these challenges, artists and designers continued to push the boundaries of creativity, producing works that reflected the complex and evolving nature of the Cuban society.

One of the defining features of the post-revolutionary era in Cuba was the emphasis on functional design. Artists and designers sought to create objects that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and useful in everyday life. This led to the development of a unique style of functional design that combined traditional Cuban craftsmanship with modernist influences.

Architectural renderings also played a significant role in shaping the post-revolutionary era in Cuba. Architects sought to create buildings that were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and representative of the country's rich cultural heritage. This led to the development of a distinctive architectural style that fused traditional Cuban architecture with modernist elements.

Speculative prototypes for a design for all ethos were also a hallmark of the post-revolutionary era in Cuba. Artists and designers sought to create objects and buildings that were accessible to everyone, regardless of their social status or economic background. This led to the development of a design philosophy that emphasized inclusivity and social justice.

Art and graphic design also played a vital role in conveying the post-revolutionary spirit of Cuba. Artists and designers used their work to express their political beliefs, social concerns, and cultural identity. This led to the creation of a vibrant and diverse art scene that featured a range of styles and mediums, from traditional painting and sculpture to contemporary photography and digital art.

The post-revolutionary era in Cuba also saw the emergence of a new generation of artists and designers who were influenced by the country's political and social climate. These artists and designers sought to use their work to challenge the dominant narrative and promote social change. They used their creativity to raise awareness about issues such as poverty, inequality, and human rights, and to advocate for a more democratic and inclusive society.

Despite the challenges faced by artists and designers in the post-revolutionary era, their work continued to have a significant impact on the country's cultural landscape. Their contributions helped to shape the country's identity and to promote a sense of pride and belonging among its citizens. Today, Cuba's post-revolutionary aesthetic continues to inspire and influence artists and designers around the world, and its legacy serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and the importance of social and political activism.

In conclusion, the post-revolutionary era of Cuba from the late 1950s to the 1970s was a period of immense creativity and cultural transformation. Design and architecture played a pivotal role in shaping the country's identity and cultural expression, and artists and designers used their work to challenge the dominant narrative and promote social change. Despite the challenges faced by artists and designers, their contributions continue to have a significant impact on the country's cultural landscape, and their legacy serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and the importance of social and political activism.

Weight: 1482g
Dimension: 550 x 307 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780847831401