Cuban erotic art exhibition opens with significant donations
- WEAM in Miami opened a major exhibition dedicated to Cuban erotic art on December 2, 2024.
- The exhibition features over 150 works by more than 70 artists and spans the last 90 years of Cuban art.
- This exhibition marks a historic moment for both the museum and the representation of Cuban art in the U.S.
In Miami, Florida, a significant cultural milestone occurred on December 2, 2024, when the Wilzig Museum of Art (WEAM) opened its doors to the historic exhibition dedicated to Cuban erotic art. This exhibition, titled Forbidden Fruit: The Art of Cuban Sexuality, marks a major event, being the largest known exhibition of its kind ever held. It showcases works from over 70 artists created across the last 90 years, and is set to remain on display until July 2025. The collections include art from notable eras of Cuban art history, such as the Vanguardia generation, and features a diverse range of themes, exploring various aspects of sexuality through different artistic lenses. This groundbreaking exhibition is curated by Antonio Permuy, along with assistant curator Karina Sirven. It serves not only as an exhibition of artistic value but also as a crucial cultural bridge, bringing forth a rich tapestry of Cuban artistic expression to an American audience. The exhibition includes more than 150 pieces spanning painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography. Moreover, the diversity of the works—ranging from subtle to explicit—reflects the complexity of sexuality and its representation in art. The themes addressed in the exhibition include spirituality, mythology, nature, and psychological landscapes, presenting a thought-provoking narrative for viewers. Antonio Permuy has significantly impacted this exhibition with his substantial donation of over 30 works by various artists, marking the largest donation WEAM has ever received. The inclusion of these artworks not only enriches the display but also enhances the collective cultural inheritance of the Miami community. The exhibition celebrates artists ranging from the legendary to contemporary figures, ensuring that the history and evolution of Cuban erotic art are explored in depth. Additionally, the exhibition is complemented by guest artist Mariette Pathy Allen, whose works create a dialogue with the collections. Her series, Breaking Boundaries, will be featured alongside the main exhibition, enhancing the understanding of sexuality as portrayed through different cultural lenses. As Miami Art Week unfolds, the opening of Forbidden Fruit serves as a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and sexuality, establishing a significant landmark in the appreciation of Cuban art history and contemporary dialogue.