Times are a changin
Hola Amigo’s, Hola December, Que Tal??? New month, new season. In with the new and time to let go and process the old. Fresh back from Cuba, with stories, documentation, and experiences. Catching some monumental events and missing others. Times are a changin. whoa…can I just say, November was one to remember? American elections, the passing of the beloved Leonard Cohen, and the death of Fidel Castro. Putting all of this in one sentence still doesn’t make it believable. Three male figures in history have affected people’s lives in such polarity of emotions at different times. However, In stating that, I’m not here to bring up any politics or state my views on each event. Let’s keep it light. It’s simply a time to reflect, process, and move forward
As they say, the only constant thing is change. A word that everyone is talking about when it comes to Cuba. Having this incredible opportunity again to return and document, I hit the streets to capture present-day Cuba once again. Change was evident and expected. Streets are more bustling with tourism. Building and roads are under repair and restoration. Old sounds are mingling with the new. Hammers, electric saws, cars, roosters, people, and of course music. Creating a buzz of energy. The energy that when on pause Nov 26th, in the wake of Fidel’s death. Beginning 9 days of mourning and a ban on music. Bars, restaurants, and cafes closed early, and there was an eerily hush over the city that I had NEVER experienced before.
Among all this change, Cuba’s pace can resemble a sleepy small town. Slow and set in its ways but also comforting to be recognized and welcomed by the locals. A place filled with complexities. Cuba is complicated and unpredictable at times but real. A place to truly stay present and expect the unexpected. Continually feeling the lure to return, to learn, be inspired, and connect as well, This Cuba chapter has not yet closed for me. A link has been made, from this island to theirs. Back in Montreal and in hibernation mode, I begin the editing process once again. Working on artistic and wellness projects that will be presented in the new year. So please stay tuned. Very excited to be giving sneak peaks to things to come.