Young and Talented: The Gift of Susan Leal

Photographing something as intangible as talent might seem impossible, yet some have proven that miracles can be captured through a lens—leaving behind gestures, sometimes near-grimaces, as indelible witnesses to music, dance, a memorable performance, or a well-told joke.

Young photographer Susan Leal has entered this universe of precise gazes that capture the invisible, as reflected in her first solo exhibition, "Giving Life a Song," displayed in the lobby of Havana’s Karl Marx Theater. A show where every detail holds meaning:

"This exhibition summarizes my seven-year artistic career, which has been entirely dedicated to working on Cuba’s stages. This very theater was one of the first to open its doors to me, even when I was still a photography apprentice."

"The 27 photographs reflect different moments from these seven years—spanning theater, concerts, comedy, and many of the artists who have allowed me to work alongside them and accompany them throughout this time."

To select the images for the exhibition, Susan focused on "those that conveyed emotion to me, because that’s always my goal: to transmit feelings rather than simply document what happens on stage."

Yet among all the chosen pieces, she admits there is "one very special photograph—the one that leads the exhibition. It’s of Eduardo Sosa, recently passed away, a dear friend to whom I owe so much. In 2021, I suffered a traumatic assault and lost my camera. The next day, without hesitation, Sosa showed up at my door with one of his own cameras for me to use. This photo was taken with that very camera. This exhibition is dedicated to him, in his honor."

Today, Susan Leal continues chasing emotions, camera in hand: "I’m still working at concerts, with artists like Buena Fe, Raúl Paz, Adrián Berazaín, and Waldo Mendoza…" But her ambitions and vocation keep growing:

"I’m currently studying Social Communication at university, which aligns with my work as a public relations specialist at the Center for the Promotion of Humor. I recently wrapped filming for Alejandro Gil’s movie on Teófilo Stevenson, where I served as the still photographer—an incredible first-time experience."

Reflecting on the challenge, the young artist shared: "My first film project was truly wonderful, and I’m overjoyed, but it was also a major test—especially learning to photograph boxing matches. Imagine, I went from shooting singers and performers to capturing boxers in the ring. It was beautiful. I’m deeply grateful to Alejandro for the opportunity and to Kike Quiñones, who is both part of this exhibition and the film’s cast."

Translated by Sergio A. Paneque Díaz / CubaSí Translation Staff