Elegua

In this powerful collagraph print that won the Grand Prix at the IV International Engraving Triennial Exhibition in Kochi, Japan (1999), CHOCO creates a mysterious and spiritually evocative composition. The work features a mask-like face emerging from what appears to be a nest or circular base, rendered in luminous yellows and browns against a deep black background. Above the face hovers a single red flame or teardrop form, while to the right, a bold red rectangular shape marked with crosses suggests a door or religious portal. The piece masterfully balances secular and sacred imagery, with the mask's vacant white eyes creating an haunting presence against the darkness.

The technical excellence that earned this work international recognition is evident in CHOCO's sophisticated use of the collagraph medium. The artist achieves remarkable textural variations through his masterful plate preparation: the intricate, almost web-like patterns in the face, the concentric layered textures in the circular base, and the smooth, solid presence of the red rectangular form. The composition is unified by delicate white lines that create a geometric framework across the dark background, adding both structure and mystery to this award-winning print. The work exemplifies why CHOCO is considered one of Cuba's master printmakers, demonstrating his ability to merge technical precision with profound symbolic content.