ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Ernesto Bazan's Cuban Trilogy at ZAC Palermo

exhibition · 2026-05-05

ZAC, the contemporary art space of the Municipality of Palermo, showcases Ernesto Bazan's Cuban Trilogy, a photographic collection that spans from 1992 to 2006 over 14 years. Bazan, a Palermo native born in 1959 and an alumnus of the School of Visual Arts in New York, vividly portrays Cuba's essence through vibrant colors and detailed black-and-white photographs that emphasize daily life, work, family, and landscapes. Curated by Daniele Alamia, the exhibition is open until September 28, 2016. Critics have pointed out flaws in the installation, noting the cramped arrangement of images along the hangar walls and disruptions caused by banners and crates. The review suggests that the venue needs significant, site-specific projects with sufficient funding and strong curatorial vision, which appears to be an elusive goal for any administration. The larger initiative for the Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa, potentially involving private partnerships and aiming for long-term viability, remains unfulfilled.

Key facts

  • Ernesto Bazan's Cuban Trilogy is exhibited at ZAC in Palermo.
  • Bazan was born in Palermo in 1959 and studied at the School of Visual Arts in New York.
  • The trilogy includes Bazan Cuba, Al Campo, and Isla.
  • Bazan first visited Cuba in 1992 and was inspired for 14 years until 2006.
  • The exhibition is curated by Daniele Alamia.
  • The show runs until September 28, 2016.
  • The installation is criticized as weak, with images displayed without dynamic rhythm.
  • The review calls for site-specific productions and better management for ZAC.

Entities

Artists

  • Ernesto Bazan
  • Letizia Battaglia
  • Helga Marsala
  • Daniele Alamia

Institutions

  • ZAC – spazio per l’arte contemporanea del Comune di Palermo
  • School of Visual Arts
  • Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Palermo
  • Italy
  • Cuba
  • New York
  • Via Paolo Gili 4

Sources