NEW YORK, NY.- The First Presbyterian Church in the City of New York announced that its Art at First Program launched A Cuban State of Mind, a two-month series celebrating the rich tradition of Cuban art and culture, on March 2.

Through a special art exhibit, panel discussions, concerts and a film screening, the series provides the community a unique opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of Cuban culture. Premier Cuban visual artists, musicians, filmmakers, and educators are being highlighted. Program curator, Jorge Moya, says “the efforts of this remarkable congregation allow us to share the great achievements of this group of artists, as well as their impact on the New York contemporary art scene”.

A Cuban State of Mind opened with the art exhibition, “Origin and Circumstances” on March 2, on view until April 30. The gallery showcases paintings, drawings, photographs, and mixed media works by five US-based Cuban artists reflecting on Cuban history and contemporary culture. Included in the exhibition are paintings and watercolors by Ariel Cabrera Montejo, drawings by Jairo Alfonso, photographs by Giorgio Viera, paintings by Geandy Pavón, and sculptures by Armando Guiller.

“Origin and Circumstances” explores what it is like to be an emigrant and an artist, and what a change of country and environment implies for those whose works are inspired by their origins and circumstances. Art critic and curator Meyken Baretto states, “In many different ways these artists carry the weight of their past, their memories and their culture.”

A Cuban State of Mind will also feature music performances by Cuban artists David Virelles and Melvis Santa. On March 12 at 4pm pianist and composer David Virelles will perform Lineage, a program dedicated to the legacy of the Cuban piano. From the danzon to the new sounds of Afro-Cuban jazz, the performer will take the audience through the different periods that defined the idiom of this instrument on the island.

On April 30 at 4pm, Cuban vocalist, pianist, Afro Cuban dancer, and actress Melvis Santa will give a special concert with piano and batá drums. Known for her creative artistry, Santa made her debut on the musical scene when she founded the group Sexto Sentido, heralded by jazz legend Chucho Valdés as “the best Cuban vocal quartet of the past 30 years.” The New York Times defines her style as “possessing 70`s soul underpinnings, yet belonging to the Afro Cuban musical traditions.”