Cuba : Land of Spirit. Black and white photographs by James Sparshatt

About

“My love of photography developed while I was working as an adventure guide and photojournalist in Latin America in the 1990s.  Both there, and later in Cuba, I was captivated by the energy and exuberance of the festivals and dance so inherent in latino life.  Many of my images celebrate the rich and vibrant musical heritage of Havana, Buenos Aires and Seville.

When I look at them I hear the rhythmic beat of the drums and almost feel a trickle of sweat running down my back.  I remain amazed when they have the same effect on a stranger, but I suppose that is the power of the image”

James has had solo exhibitions in the US, Ireland, Spain, Cuba, France and across the UK.  His work is shown at contemporary art fairs across the world including at Art Chicago, ArtHamptons, Slick (Paris), Art Market (San Francisco), AAF London, AAF Singapore, AAF New York and many more.  His photographs have been used for advertising campaigns and featured in magazines such as Dazed and Confused, Tatler, Red, Wanderlust as well as all of the UK’s major broadsheets.  He has also written for the New Statesman.  In 2011 a platinum print of Soweto Strings was auctioned at Sothebys, New York City.

Reviews
“a dazzling collection of black and white images”
Exhibition at the Royal National Theatre, Sunday Telegraph

“Sparshatt’s portraits continue to offer a positive view of Cuban resilience and beauty… he never falls for clichés… his subjects defy their economic limitations as the musicians and dancers’ spirits fly”.
Sue Steward, Photography Critic for the London Evening Standard International Awards