Doña Carmen is a tribute to the resilience, wisdom, and cultural depth of Cuban women. Through rich oil textures and a warm, earthy palette, this piece captures the strength etched into every line of her face. The subject, an elderly woman enjoying a cigar, embodies both tradition and defiance—an icon of endurance in a rapidly changing world. Her gaze, unwavering and contemplative, invites the viewer to see beyond her years and into a life marked by experience, survival, and pride. The contrast between the softness of her attire and the ruggedness of her skin reflects the duality of tenderness and toughness that defines many matriarchal figures in Caribbean culture.
This painting is deeply influenced by the visual storytelling of everyday life in Cuba. Inspired by the works of artists who celebrate working-class figures, I wanted to honor the authenticity of age, the beauty of imperfection, and the quiet power of self-possession. The cigar, a symbol of Cuban heritage, is not just an accessory but an extension of her character—bold, unapologetic, and steeped in history. With Doña Carmen, I aim to capture the essence of a people who carry their past with dignity and wear their stories on their skin.
