My name is Maikel Benitez. I’m a visual artist based in New York. I studied at the University of Arts (ISA) in Havana, Cuba.
My work is a constant dialogue between past and present, between the universal and the personal. I am interested in juxtaposing elements that at first glance seem unrelated, to generate new readings and reflections. I use the human figure, especially the head, as a canvas on which to project ideas and emotions. Through it, I explore themes such as identity, history, and the human condition.
My paintings are like visual puzzles that reveal layers of meaning as you delve deeper into them. I am fascinated by the idea that the same symbol can have multiple readings and that art can be a vehicle for transformation.
Exhibition and Awards:
2024:
* Group Exhibition "ArtGroove", Soho, Manhattan, New York.
* Group Exhibition "La mano hispana", Milander Center, Miami, FL
2023:
* Group Exhibition "Kovens Cultural Art Series", Kovens Conference Center, FIU, Miami, FL
* Group Exhibition "La mano hispana" (The Hispanic Hand), Milander Center Gallery, Miami, FL
* Group Exhibition "Honoring José Martí", Milander Center Gallery, Miami, FL
2022:
* Certificate of Artistic Merit, Luxembourg Art Prize, La Pinacothèque Museum, Luxembourg
2020:
* Solo Exhibition “Elogio de la locura” (In Praise of Madness), Perro Gris Gallery, Mexico City
2019:
* Exhibition at White Cloud Gallery, Washington D.C.
2012:
* Collective Exhibition “For Business”, Ateneo of Tomás Terry Theater, Cienfuegos, Cuba
2009:
* Cover and illustrations for the book “Los caminos hundidos” by Fidel Gomes Güell, Creation Grant Award, Reina del Mar Editorial, Cienfuegos, Cuba
2006:
* VIII Mateo Torriente Salon, UNEAC, Fast Painting Festival (Award)
* VI Edition of the Art Instructors Salon. Provincial Museum of Cienfuegos, Cuba (Award)
2005:
* V Edition of the Provincial Salon of Art Instructors, Provincial House of Culture, Cienfuegos, Cuba (Award)
* XI Territorial Landscape Salon, Cienfuegos Art Center
2004:
* XV Sea Salon, Naval History Museum, Cienfuegos, Cuba
* City Salon: From Encaustic to Young Blood, Provincial Art Gallery (Award)
* VI Fast Painting Festival, Mateo Torriente Salon (Award)
Contact:
Web: maikelartcuba.com
E-mail:maikelartcuba@gmail.com
IG: @maikelbenitez_art