Born in 1962, Fidel Mico studied at Cuba's most prestigious art school, San Alejandro.  His workshop is a rented room in a suburb of Havana.

The studio is a treasure-trove of creativity, the walls covered with spectacular scenery.  Detailed vegetation, sunsets and rivers are shaped with impeccable technique.  Fidel is indeed, a master of landscapes.

We purchase several paintings, and Fidel inquires, "My landlord is also a painter.  Would you like to meet him?"  In the main part of the house, landlord Oscar proudly displays his romantic landscapes that include flaming royal poinciana trees in a style that suggests he is Fidel's protege.  We purchase two paintings from him, after which he informs us, "My wife paints, too."

Oscar's wife, Marilyn is working at her easel in the rear of the house, completing a large body of work for an exhibition, her fanciful images of playful children, evidence of yet another accomplished painter in the same household.

As we are about to leave, Fidel's son arrives to show us his own landscapes, mature work that belies his 18 years.  We see that Fidel has taught him well.

Fidel Mico's life represents the "inventando" or inventing that drives Cubans during harsh conditions.  It is a life of art, and ironically, the art of life.  Fidel's life is one of close family and friends working together  to create, and therefore survive.

 - Notes from Cuba! Gallery of Fine Art -

 - Bio is available -