Painter Ernesto Rancaño Dies at 53 Years Old

February 26, 2022

Renowned Cuban plastic artist Ernesto Rancaño passed away this Friday, February 25, from lung cancer.

The distinguished artist was born in Havana in 1968. He graduated from the San Alejandro Academy in 1991 and held more than a dozen solo exhibitions in Cuba, Spain, the United States, Panama, Mexico, England, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic.

He also participated in more than fifty group exhibitions and numerous projects in Cuba and abroad, and took part in the creation of numerous collective murals.

His series "- Bad, Good +" and "Forbidden Hugs," to mention only the most recent, received the warmest reception from the public and praise from specialized critics.

His works also illustrate important publications from various publishers.

He was part of the "Martha Machado" Brigade led by distinguished Cuban artist Alexis Leyva (Kcho), in which he played a prominent role in the effort to bring art to the areas most affected by hurricanes in various regions of Cuba and the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

His work enjoys great acceptance for its clear human message, deep lyricism, and meticulous craftsmanship.

Rancaño was the creator of a refined visual universe, where elegant formal beauty, exquisite poetry, and an overflowing Cubanness stand out.

A convinced Martian, his work reflected his commitment to just causes was deep-rooted and fruitful.

He was a member of the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba and the International Association of Plastic Artists.

Currently on display at the Palace of the Revolution is his solo exhibition "Under the Care of the Giver," a sublime tribute to the Apostle, where we find the anguishes and certainties of Martian expressions.