Printmaking in Cuba boasts a rich and varied history intricately intertwined with the island's cultural and political development. From its inception to the present day, it has been a vital form of artistic expression and communication in Cuba. The art form began to develop in the 19th century, influenced by European artistic trends. During this period, the first printmaking techniques, such as etching and woodcut, were introduced to the island, primarily through publications and illustrated books. These engraved images served to document important events, landscapes, and customs of Cuban society.
At the beginning of the 20th century, printmaking began to gain recognition as an autonomous art form in Cuba. Artists like Eduardo Abela, with his series "Los Guajiros," utilized printmaking to reflect the social and cultural reality of the country. This era saw greater experimentation with techniques and styles, influenced by artistic movements such as Modernism and Surrealism.
