Cuban sculptors José Villa Soberón and Gabriel Cisneros are crafting a sculpture to pay tribute to the renowned trovadora Teresita Fernández, often hailed as the "greatest singer" of Cuban children's music. This development was revealed on Saturday through a social media post.
The Facebook page El Señor Corchea unveiled an image of the sculpture in progress, referring to it as a "teaser" of the ongoing work.
"José Villa Soberón and Gabriel Cisneros are collaborating on a sculpture honoring the legendary Teresita Fernández. Consider this a teaser, as the piece is still in progress," the post stated.
The clay model depicts an elderly woman seated, leaning slightly forward as she plays a guitar. The sculpture is noted for its remarkable realism, particularly in the detailed depiction of facial features like pronounced wrinkles, a peaceful expression, and intricately crafted hands and clothing folds.
Teresita Fernández García was born in Santa Clara on December 20, 1930, and passed away in Havana on November 11, 2013, at the age of 83.
As a trovadora, storyteller, and educator, her work left a mark on several generations of Cubans with songs such as "Mi gatico Vinagrito," "Dame la mano y danzaremos," "Tin, tin, la lluvia," and "El grillito acatarrado."
She set to music the texts of José Martí (1853-1895) and the Rondas of Gabriela Mistral (1889-1957), significantly influencing artists like Silvio Rodríguez and Liuba María Hevia.
Ignacio Villa (1911-1971), known as Bola de Nieve, encapsulated her artistry with a phrase that became emblematic: "You don't need any adornment other than the song itself."
Villa Soberón, the 2008 recipient of the National Prize for Plastic Arts, is Cuba's most renowned public sculptor, famous for his iconic works in Havana, including statues of John Lennon in Vedado, El Caballero de París in Old Havana, and Ernest Hemingway at El Floridita.
Gabriel Cisneros has been collaborating with Villa Soberón since July 2015 in a shared Havana workshop. Their joint projects include the statue of Alicia Alonso (1920-2019) at the Gran Teatro and Eusebio Leal (1942-2020) in Old Havana, inaugurated in November 2021.
The upcoming piece dedicated to Teresita Fernández follows the artists' customary approach of initial clay modeling before the final bronze casting, a material with which they have immortalized other key figures of Cuban culture.
The final location and unveiling date of the sculpture have yet to be announced.
Frequently Asked Questions about Teresita Fernández Sculpture
Who are the artists behind the Teresita Fernández sculpture?
The sculpture is being created by Cuban sculptors José Villa Soberón and Gabriel Cisneros.
What is the significance of Teresita Fernández in Cuban culture?
Teresita Fernández is celebrated as a major figure in Cuban children's music, known for her influential songs and contributions to the cultural heritage of Cuba.
When will the Teresita Fernández sculpture be unveiled?
The unveiling date and final location for the sculpture have not yet been announced.