CUBA IS

CUBA IS
SEP 9, 2017 – MAR 4, 2018

Revealing complexities on–and off–the island, Cuba Is explores aspects of Cuba not easily accessed by foreigners–and sometimes not even by Cubans themselves. Born from indigenous, African and European roots, divergent politics and limitations in communication and commerce, the Cuba seen in this exhibition goes beyond the folklore and offers new insight into its current reality. Over 120 photos feature subjects ranging from defiant youth known as “Frikis” to the hard-partying children of the 1%, the underground system of sharing digital content–“El paquete”–to Miami’s Chonga girls.

Photographs by Elliott Erwitt, Leysis Quesada, Raúl Cañibano, Tria Giovan and others examine aspects of the island not easily accessed by foreigners and Cubans alike. In addition, an original documentary film—produced by the Annenberg Foundation—follows the exhibition’s photographers as they capture unseen images of life in Havana and beyond.

Complementing this rare, immersive look into Cuban life is a virtual reality experience that delves into Cuba’s current dynamic music scene, allowing visitors to virtually stroll along the storied Malecón.

The Cuba Is exhibit is part of Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA, a far-reaching and ambitious exploration of Latin American and Latino art in dialogue with Los Angeles. Pacific Standard Time is an initiative of the Getty. The presenting sponsor is Bank of America.

Annenberg Space for Photography
2000 Avenue of the Stars
Los Angeles, CA 90067