The city of Holguin is currently establishing itself as the region’s cultural epicenter with the hosting of the 24th edition of the Iberoarte International Handicraft Fair 2026. A hub for Ibero-American exchange that opened its doors from October 8th to 24th.
Centered at the Expo Holguin fairgrounds, which serve as the primary venue for exhibitions and sales. The event brings together talent from both Cuba and abroad. This year, Mexico is featured as the guest country of honor. With a special tribute paid to the art of metalwork. A craft that embodies the island’s unique identity.
As part of this major event, the Bayado Gallery, managed by the Cuban Fund for Cultural Assets. Hosted the opening of the “Lote” Visual Arts Exhibition, a poignant showcase dedicated to the memory of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz.
The exhibition features over 20 works spanning various media. Including photography, oil on canvas, metalwork, and stone carving. It showcases the talent of renowned artists from Holguin, such as Carlos Rafael Díaz, Vladimir Sánchez Pérez, and Frank Danilo Sarmiento Guerrero.
During the opening remarks, Víctor Aguilera Nonell, vice president of the Union of Historians of Cuba for the province. He reflected on the deep ties that connected the historic leader to the nation’s artistic vanguard.
Also the historian noted that, over the course of more than 50 years, Fidel held frequent meetings with creators from all artistic disciplines. He consistently took an interest in their concerns and in emerging cultural trends. Establishing himself as a driving force behind deeply inclusive social and revolutionary projects.
The vitality of the fair extends well beyond the commercial sale of functional and decorative pieces. Incorporating an extensive circuit of collateral exhibitions, fashion shows, and theoretical forums held at iconic institutions throughout the city.
Finally through workshops, temporary exhibitions, and professional gatherings, Iberoarte 2026 reaffirms the mastery of craftsmanship. Defined by rigor and a distinct sense of identity. While fostering a direct, ongoing dialogue among artists, specialists, and the public who support this traditional event year after year.
By: Daimy Peña Guillén
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