Manuel Mendive

Biography

Manuel Mendive Oyó was born on December 15, 1944, in Havana. He is a Cuban artist, sculptor, draftsman, and cultural figure. Mendive is regarded as one of the most important contemporary Cuban artists and is connected with the artistic direction of magical realism. His work is influenced by primitive visual forms, which gradually replaced in Cuba the original creativity of the Yoruba people—a ethnic group whose culture was brought to the island along with slaves mainly from the territory of modern Nigeria. This cultural context is significantly reflected in his works. Mendive is also recognized as an Afro-Cuban artist, emphasizing his connection to Cuban culture and African heritage.