We’re back at the artistic laboratory. This time to show you everything behind this project. A "gallery" quite different from what we’re used to. A reality that even its creators didn’t imagine.
If you want more about the Lab Read here
The Eye of the Cyclone (literally translated) is located at O'Reilly #501, corner of Villegas (one block from the famous Boulevard de Obispo).
The Eye of the Cyclone
When we were welcomed by the creator, we still didn’t know he was the artist Leo D'Lazaro, a renowned sculptor in the city whose works adorn various places.
Of course, the first question was, Why that name?
According to the author, the name came naturally from the very concept of the gallery.
The place would become his refuge from the outside world -the calm in the storm- The more he isolated himself from the world, the more freedom he had for his creativity.
It was the calm we all needed, yet it was situated in the bustling life of the Boulevard of Havana.
How it transitioned from a gallery or creation center to an artistic laboratory is more of the same.
Twenty years ago, when the idea emerged, the artist would be the only one to kick off the place. Over time, other artists and disciples joined in. The Eye of the Cyclone would become more than just a gallery.
Several creative minds came together. All kinds of art were born here. Not only paintings were created; as you can see in some photos, there are even customized suitcases.
While they were thinking about how to rename the place, they decided to call it a laboratory. If we think about it for a moment, it fits perfectly.
According to the artist, many works are born from the experimentation of artists. Where do experiments happen? In a laboratory. Eureka!
Social Projects
“Art in the Neighborhood” is the motto of the laboratory. That’s why several projects are based here.
The most famous is TangueArte. According to what we were told, it aims to connect Havana and Argentina through this sensual dance. For days, throughout Havana and outdoors, workshops are held where classes and demonstrations by the “students” involved in the project take place.
Another project we really liked introduces neighborhood children to the visual arts. Since the laboratory has been around for over 20 years, some of the first children are now visual artists showcasing their beginnings in the space.
It’s a story we loved. The area where the laboratory is located is not one of the best in the city (despite tourism). For a child to come off the street and follow the path to become a visual artist is not just a story of motivation/survival; it’s the essence of The Eye of the Cyclone itself.
This piece you see next is the latest creation by Leo D'Lazaro. It’s a tribute to the laboratory. Don’t ask me about the technique; we asked and were told it’s the house style.
What we can see is that it illustrates several important moments of the laboratory, as well as the people and projects that have earned it a place among locals and foreign visitors.
Our Experience
We went to the venue on the recommendation of some friends. Our expectations weren’t very high. We thought we would find a regular gallery.
As we stood at the door, we realized that the word “normal” doesn’t exist here.
We entered, meaning we changed worlds and allowed ourselves to be surprised. We liked that no one interrupted us; we were free to explore as we wished.
When we were already surprised and didn’t know if we were on Earth or in the mind of the artist, the artist arrived to surprise us even more.
We chatted, and they seated us. Unfortunately, we couldn’t have a coffee due to the lack of powder in our country (next time we agreed to bring it ourselves).
We decided to play a little Jenga with a friend of Leo’s, and the hours flew by. It was an experience we could call “illuminating.”
Today, art tends to lean towards the abstract and minimalistic. In this laboratory, it’s the opposite. Everyday objects are used. Reality is distorted; what is established is challenged. Even the problems Cuba faces are transformed into art here.
For me, it was impossible to choose a favorite piece or a preferred section. My girlfriend, however, was clear: “Wherever the cat is, that’s my favorite piece,” she said.
Details
Above, I’ve provided the exact address of the place.
Entry is FREE, and taking photos is more than allowed.
We tried to leave a small economic contribution, but they firmly declined (we believe it was because, being nationals, they didn’t want to accept it due to the situation in Cuba).
I recommend that if you go, try to leave some contribution (it doesn’t have to be large); I assure you it will be well utilized.
If you want to see more about this place, look up the artist Leo D'Lazaro on both Instagram and Facebook.
You can contact them via email: elojodelcicloncuba@gmail.com
Tips: Next door, there’s a café decorated by the artist. If you want to enjoy a coffee and continue enjoying art, you know where to go.
Conclusion
If you want to step away from the touristy spots and get to know the reality of this town, this place is a great start.
You’ll have an incredible time, and I think when you leave, you won’t even know what to say. There’s so much to see, enjoy, savor, and above all, think about. More than recommend...
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All images are mine
