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The free voice of exile and identity with the cartoons of Julio Larraz.
Julio Larraz. Uncensored is a publication that brings together the Cuban artist's most iconic cartoons. Julio Larraz, born on March 12, 1944, in Havana, Cuba, is a renowned Cuban-American artist who excels as a painter, sculptor, and cartoonist. His work ranges from political cartooning to figurative painting, displaying a style that combines elements of realism and surrealism.
Cartoons spanning the period from 1962 to 2024, published by Turner Publishing, featuring Larraz and his life, which was deeply marked by his exile to the United States in 1961, a time when he discovered in cartooning a means to express his concerns and articulate an incisive critique of the political landscape that surrounded him.
Richard Nixon by Julio Larraz.
Julio Larraz's caricature style is distinguished by a sharp, satirical humor, accompanied by a subtle surrealist touch that lends a unique dimension to his works. His technique, characterized by agile and precise lines, allows him to skillfully capture the essence and personality of each of his characters. Through his depictions of political figures, which have been published in numerous media outlets, Larraz offers a critical and penetrating look at the social and political reality of his time.
These caricatures not only reflect his stance on historical events but also invite the viewer to reflect on the complexities of power and society. Furthermore, in his more personal and reserved works, Larraz displays a profound sensitivity to explore and reveal essential aspects of human nature, thus demonstrating the versatility and emotional reach of his artistic work. In this way, his output is not limited to social criticism but becomes a testament to the human condition, capable of connecting with the viewer on multiple levels.
Nicolás Maduro by Julio Larraz.
Julio Larraz is recognized for his detailed and realistic depictions of everyday life in the Caribbean, which clearly reflect the influences of surrealism and artists such as Giorgio de Chirico. His work profoundly addresses themes such as memory, exile, and the search for identity, employing a rich palette of intense colors alongside carefully crafted techniques. His ability to capture moments of reflection and solitude in his scenes has led to comparisons with that of Edward Hopper, and he is noted for his sensitive capture of human introspection.
This publication, featuring a selection of images and text by Kosme de Barañano, explores more than 300 caricatures created over six decades, beginning in Cuba and continuing with portraits of Nixon, Obama, and Trump.
