Memories of Persistence

Memories of Persistence: the title of the exhibition provides some clues: José María Mellado, the Spanish author, what is the transcendence he is referring to? These are the memories of a nature that can be transformed by men, but claims its preeminence. The truth is that human beings are part of this framework and once he or she abandons those spaces where he or she is, or lives in, the natural balance is restored.

This is the magnificent chronicle of an inclusive landscape: strength, vigor, beauty…art.

Memories of Persistence occupies several spaces on the third and fifth floor of the Universal Art building of the National Museum of Fine Arts. They are large format photographs, in very high quality prints, which allow you to appreciate even the slightest details. The thematic and generic variety is notable. And the class, the undoubted aesthetic values ​​of recreation.

On the fifth level, the works of José María Mellado establish a unique dialogue with the institution's permanent exhibition of European painting, particularly with the German, Dutch and Flemish collections. The art follower may get some surprises. Next to a lady portrayed by Van Dick, another lady... much closer in time and geography. The models of yesteryear share the solemnity of contemporary mannequins. And if we talk about landscapes, paintings and photographs, they emulate them in majesty.

Ethics, aesthetics and technique come together in a discourse with more or less subtle social implications. They are not simply beautiful reproductions of the environment. Sometimes that beauty hurts, as it connotes.

The exhibition Memories of Persistence will be exhibited until October.

Translated by Sergio A. Paneque Díaz / CubaSí Translation Staff