Miami Dade College’s West Campus paid tribute to Cuban sculptor, craftsman and print maker Roberto Estopiñan on March 18 during the opening reception of an art exhibition showcasing his work.
The exposition titled Roberto Estopiñán, Homage to a Great Master on His 90th Anniversary, appropriately opened on Estopiñan’s 90th birthday. It displays his work that has spanned 60 years.
It includes 29 paintings and 25 sculptures.
“We had been working in preparation of this event for over a year,” said Gustavo Orta, who curated the event. “The result has been spectacular with over 600 people that have come and shown their support.”
One of the paintings showcased was Estopiñan’s Abanico/Hand Fan from the Ester & Gustavo Orta Collection. It was drawn in honor of his gay friend and his ability to express his acceptance of the gay community.
Estopiñan enrolled at the San Alejandro Academy when he was just 14-years-old and became studio assistant to sculptor Juan José Sicre.
Years later, along with masters Guido Llinas, Tomas Oliva, Rita Longa and Hugo Consuegra, he started and became a part of the Vanguardia generation, known for its colorful and joyful depictions of Cuban flowers, fruits and other vegetation. This group of people captured vibrant colors and landscapes.
In 1961, Estopñian departed from Cuba and moved to New York, where he resided until 2002 before moving to Miami where he retired.
“Tonight has been simply astonishing,” Estopiñan said at the opening reception of his latest exhibit at the West Campus.
The showcase is open through April 12. It is free to the public.
