Cuban artist, Hermes, creates works heavily influenced by Oswaldo Guayasamín, an Ecuadorian master painter and sculptor of Quechua and Criollo heritage. Similar to Guayasamín, his series reflects three faces with the major emphasis of the work on the hands of the figure.

 

Two works in the series, “Love I (What I Want to See)” and “Hope (What is Left to See)” reflect human’s willingness and ability to focus only on what is most salient to what they want to experience. The distinctive hands of each figure serve as blinders to the reality of what stands in our peripheral vision. Though perhaps honing in on the naivety of human perspective, Hermes’ work is also inspired by the dictatorship of Castro.

 

The series reflects the hope that what Cubans fought for in the revolution is still within reach. It demonstrates that the power of faith, hope and love, although sometimes less rational, are some of the most impactful roots of what humankind embraces and strives for. Hermes’ works express a beautiful, dichotomous message and provoke thoughtful dissension among viewers.