Surreal Cuba: A Photographic Journey 1993-94
Feb 19, 2025
From: 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
A rare collection of documentary photographs unveils the stark realities and surreal moments of Cuba's Special Period, capturing a pivotal time of economic hardship and social transformation. Surreal Cuba: A Photographic Journey, 1993-94, a new book by photographer Manuel Ruiz-Barrera, will be celebrated with a launch event on Wednesday, February 19 at the Roberto C. Goizueta Pavilion at the University of Miami.
The event, presented by University of Miami Libraries, showcases Ruiz-Barrera's award-winning photography collection, which documents daily life in Cuba during 1993-1994. These images, some of which are preserved in the University Libraries' Cuban Heritage Collection, provide an intimate view of a challenging period in Cuban history and served as inspiration for the "Bistec" podcast series.
Ruiz-Barrera's book features an innovative integration of traditional photography with digital storytelling through QR codes, allowing readers to access detailed narratives behind each image. During the evening, the photographer will discuss his creative process, share insights about specific photographs and reflect on the project's thirty-year journey to publication.
The event includes a photography display, author presentation and book signing opportunity, with light refreshments provided.