Belkis Ayón and Carlos Alfonzo: Odyssey

The aesthetic languages developed by Belkis Ayón (b.1967, Havana, Cuba–d.1999, Havana, Cuba) and Carlos Alfonzo (b.1950, Havana, Cuba 1950–d. Miami, USA,1991) present distinctive layers of embedded meaning. Each artist takes a strong, resolute approach to image making. Although their individual visual styles differ, works by Ayón and Alfonzo find connection in historical myths and complex spiritualities. A raw, bold, expressive storytelling informs their work; each composition contains an unending narrative or journey.

In tune with the world around them, both artists recognized violence and oppression. They experienced the challenges of scarcity and lack of freedoms afforded in their birth country of Cuba. Ayón and Alfonzo navigated their art in different ways, but they both received critical acclaim for their work during their lifetimes. Works by these artists continue to shape generations of artists and impact the ways in which contemporary art history takes shape. Odyssey provides new context to the works on view, uncovering each layer of meaning as an entry point to a transformative journey.

This exhibition was organized by the Museum of Art and Design at Miami Dade College. MOAD's programs are made possible with the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor, and Board of County Commissioners. They are sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture, and with generous support from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

Image: Detail, Carlos Alfonzo (1950–1991), Artist and the Genie. Oil on canvas, 1987. 96 x 84 inches. On loan from Craig Robins Collection, Miami.