Zilia Sanchez

            Zilia Sánchez is a multifaceted artist renowned for her contributions as a painter, sculptor, and printmaker. Trained at the prestigious National School of Fine Arts San Alejandro in Havana, she embarked on a prolific career spanning over six decades. Initially exploring traditional artistic mediums, Sánchez's artistic journey took an innovative turn when she encountered the work of Antoni Tàpies in Spain. This encounter inspired her to experiment with non-traditional materials, marking a departure from established norms. Despite receiving recognition in her native country, the changing political landscape led Sánchez to reside in Madrid and New York before finally settling in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

            Her most well-known series, "Erotic Topologies" (1960-1971), showcases her distinctive approach, using three-dimensional canvases on wooden armatures. This technique, characterized by forms suggesting the female figure, reflects her departure from conventional norms. Her artistic practice embraces the interplay of light and shadow, with shadows enhancing the depth and dimension of her muted color palette. In "Troyanas" (1984), she repeats forms to establish a sense of duplicity, contributing to her quest for aesthetic balance and unity in her works. Beyond canvases, Sánchez incorporates abstract-shaped drawings, as seen in "Soy Isla: Compréndelo y retírate" (1990).

            Sánchez's art is a testament to her ability to convey emotions through form, reflecting the deep connection between her feelings and artistic expression. Her commitment to exploring the female experience, both mythical and real, remains a constant thread in her work. Today, Zilia Sánchez continues to shape her artistic practice in San Juan, demonstrating a dedication to her craft spanning decades. Her work stands as a unique contribution to the world of abstraction, challenging and exploring the nuanced relationship between form and emotion.