Handmade in Cuba

Handmade in Cuba is an in-depth examination of Ediciones Vigia, an artisanal press that published exquisite books crafted from simple supplies during some of Cuba's most dire economic periods. Vividly illustrated, this volume shows how the publishing collective responded to the nation's changing historical and political situation from the margins of society, representing Cuban culture across the boundaries of race, age, gender, and genre. In this volume, poets and scholars reflect on the unique artistic direction of Rolando Estvez, who oversaw the creation of over 500 handmade books and magazines between 1985 and 2014. They highlight the beautiful designs and unusual materials selected, including fabric, metals, wood, feathers, and discarded items. Through diverse perspectives, including an interview with Estvez himself, the essays showcase the unlimited inventive possibilities of books as objects, as sculptural pieces, and as installations. Even in the age of technology, Estvez generated enormous excitement and admiration for these hand-crafted books, and this volume offers the first inside view of this important alternative publishing space. Contributors: Ruth Behar | Juanamara Cordones-Cook | Gwendolyn Daz | Erin Finzer | William Luis | Nancy Morejn | Kim Nochi | Carina Pino Santos | Kristin Schwain | Elzbieta Sklodowska