Juan Carlos Alom

Entre los elementos/Between the elements marks the first solo museum exhibition of Cuban artist Juan Carlos Alom (b.1964). Recognized for his experimental approach to photography, Alom creates work that investigates the various communities and identities that comprise Cuba and its diaspora.

Vast lowlands and mountains, jungles, deserts, and the surrounding ocean contribute to the experiences of Cubans on the island and abroad. The works on view unravel this link, spanning Alom’s career from 1989 into the present day. This presentation includes black-and-white and color photography as well as the never-before-seen film, Natural Pools (2024).

The expression “exposed to the elements” carries with it the notion of vulnerability. However, for Alom it’s not about being exposed to the elements but about stubbornly—and perhaps, courageously—existing within them. With honesty, precision, and discernment, Alom shares photographs of the people that survive, endure, and nurture life between the elements. It is a story of adaptation. More so, it is a testament to the human spirit. This exhibition is accompanied by an exhibition catalogue available for purchase at our Front Desk.

We are grateful for the generous support of lenders, our Florida International University colleagues at the Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners, the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture and the State of Florida, and Members of the Patricia and Phillip Frost Art Museum.

Juan Carlos Alom: Entre los Elementos/Between the Elements, curated by Amy Galpin and Yady Rivero, will be on view from June 15 to November 3, 2024.

Juan Carlos Alom, TV Caribe, from the Special Period series, 1989–1994, Gelatin silver print, 12.2 x 9.5 inches, Courtesy of the artist and El Apartamento