Jesús Lara exhibits in honor of maestro Frank Fernández

May 9, 2019

Vital Space is the title of the visual arts exhibition, bearing the stamp of artist Jesús Lara Sotelo, displayed in the lobby of the Avellaneda Hall, of the National Theater, on the occasion of the 75th birthday and 60 years of professional work of maestro Frank Fernández.

The title of the exhibition coincides with that of a musical work composed by the distinguished instrumentalist, in reference to a volume of poetry written by Lara with that title.

The visual artist and writer provided details to this publication.

What were the main motivations for the exhibition?

With it I want, like the rest of the artists, to add myself to the celebration of the maestro, with whom, furthermore, I am united by strong bonds of friendship.

That is why, from the visuality and interconnection we have had over time, I wanted to make him this gift.

What are the fundamental characteristics of the exhibition?

Here we can find works dating from 2007, based on pieces composed by him and others of mine that have inspired him to compose.

Among the techniques that appear, portraits stand out, ceramics, works of mine that are part of Fernández's heritage and abstractions, that is, the same play of diversity that will become the portico for the tribute.

We also have some elements of Tibetan music and a small floral arrangement, forming a unit that includes the most performative, the classical and the contemporary.

This exhibition should remain available to the public for approximately one month.

What does it mean for you to be invited to this celebration?

It is an honor to be part of this celebration that has been organized for someone who reflects the diversity that is often spoken about, but little understood. He can be found sharing with the musicians of Muñequitos de Matanzas or performing pieces by the most important classical creators in universal history.

Is the exhibition also involved with the XIII Havana Biennial?

Although this project did not arise from the Havana Biennial, because as a theme it enters the more private world of two creators, it is an honor to coincide temporally with the festival of visual arts.

What are your immediate plans?

Next Saturday, in the Book Saturday space that takes place in the Havana Plaza de Armas, an anthology of unpublished poems will be presented with the title "On Vagueness and Other Problems", published by Letras Cubanas publishing house and which has a prologue by Marilyn Bobes, Alberto Garrandel and Omar Pérez.

I believe it will also be a way to reach the public, from my perspective as a writer.

The anthology collects, in essence, contemporary poetry in which other literary styles are interwoven.