THE STORY OF CUBAN AMERICAN ARTIST FLORENCIO GELABERT The Power of SHAPES

orn in Cuba, Florencio Gelabert, never imagined he would become one of the most influential artists of his generation when he began his studies at Havana’s San Alejandro Academy of Fine Arts. But after more than thirty years, Gelabert finds himself in a fulfilling moment where his personal life and work as a sculptor meet in abundance.

by Carlos Martin

“It has not been easy getting to where am; one must persevere, feel passion for the work, and, without a doubt, take advantage of every opportunity,” said Gelabert. “For me, comparison and learning were vital — how to perceive and place the work in the context where one chooses to grow, and of course, being in this great country.”

Gelabert defines his work as sculpture in the broadest sense of the concept. “All my creative activity has revolved around three-dimensional forms, volumes, and textures. am an artist professionally influenced by the Italian Arte Póvera and by North American art movements of the second half of the 20th century: minimalism, land art, and conceptualism.”

Connecting and engaging with the public using precise aesthetic language drives him to continue creating. “I work with materials and techniques that let me establish a dialogue with the environment,” he explains. “My creative spectrum ranges from small format works to large-scale installations that interact with the space where they are placed.”

Public art is fundamental within the visual arts and is much more accessible to the public than a gallery, a museum, or an art center. It allows the work to be installed in a site where an audience can appreciate it freely, outdoors or indoors. One of his most significant works, Column Tree, is permanently displayed at Paraíso Park in Miami. This sculpture was commissioned by Related Group and is a perfect example of Gelabert’s ability to connect with the public.

Gelabert is currently building his own studio and planning a major exhibition and a large-scale public art project. His success as an artist shows the power of shapes to communicate with the public and transcend generations.

One of the liveliest and most vibrant neighborhoods in Miami, Little Havana embodies the heart of the many Cuban immigrants who have arrived on our shores.

by Shayne Benowitz