How does de Bragança make these photographs which, while appearing to reflect the real state of affairs, bring with them such an intense desire to be seen? Are the people in the photographs clamoring to be heard, or are the photographs themselves hurling their voices into that unique book-space, a space that we all understand so well. This book that brings a cross section of a land poised for change. These photographs contain more time than one would suppose an image made in a fraction of a second could imply.  The past, present and perhaps future are included in these images. Culture is the voice of a country. For this reason such a convergence of events, even the very smallest, gains monumental importance. It is my belief that this book will endure as a permanent artifact of a time in a country when the entire world was in a period of exponential change and Cuba found itself included. 

 

Photography seems to harbor an un-measurable ability to transmit feelings, facts and human experience. When these qualities encounter an inspired raconteur such as de Bragança the results can be indeed monumental.

 

This book, this Cuba, can only be seen as a totality of place, light and humanity, all rendered with a clear and balanced eye. We the viewers are all part of this noble experience.

 

Ralph Gibson