“FACES OF CUBA” PHOTOGRAPHS BY SUSAN LAWI

Harrison Council for the Arts presents “Faces of Cuba” photographic portraits by Susan Lawi at the Harrison Public Library, Halperin Building, 2 Bruce Avenue, Harrison, NY on view August 29 to September 29.  Meet the Artist September 9 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.  The artist’s work reflects her passion about the people of Cuba.   Lawi has been captivated by the beauty and warmth of its people.   She has returned to Cuba five times to make these photos.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT  I have been passionate about photography all my life.  My love of photography began at a young age when I became captivated by the images in Life Magazine.  Over the years, I have traveled to many countries.  Cuba has become my favorite destination – I have journeyed there five times.  It is an ideal place to photograph.  The unique light enhances the vibrant Caribbean colors.  The people are so warm and welcoming.  Even a lack of fluency in Spanish was not a barrier to creating engaging portraits.  As a matter of fact, few words were needed to communicate.  Their pride in being Cuban can be seen in each of their faces.  Life happens in the street, providing ample opportunities to create environmental portraits.

PHOTO WORKSHOPS ATTENDED  National Geographic Workshop in New Orleans – Oct 2015; National Geographic Workshop – Cuba and its People – Jan 2016; Alan Rokeach Workshop – Cuba – Binales, Trinidad, and Cienfuegos – June 2016; Santa Fe Workshop – Cuba – Santiago, Baracoa, and Bayamo – March 2017

EDUCATION Studied photography at Corcoran School of Art – Washington DC;  Photo classes at the Mamaroneck Center for Continuing Education;  Studied privately with Charles Seton;  Studio Lighting workshops with William Lulow

EXHIBITIONS  Permanent photo exhibit at the Jewish Community Center of Harrison entitled ‘Everyday Life in Israel.’

AUDIO/VISUAL PRESENTATIONS I love traveling to Jewish communities around the world and learning about them.  I document their communities with my photographs.  Trips have included India, Morocco, Spain and Portugal, Italy, and Cuba.  Once I have researched the history of the communities, I make presentations to synagogues and community centers.

The exhibit may be viewed Mondays and Wednesdays 9:30am to 9:00pm; Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays 9:30am to 5:30pm and Sundays 1:00 to 5:00pm.  For info call the Library at 914/835-0324 or see www.harrisonpl.org.