Arcane + Tender Arcane (adj.): Requiring secret knowledge to be understood; esoteric. Latin: arcānus (secret), arcēre (to keep safe).Tender (verb, trans.): 1. To give, present, or offer (e.g., to tender a bid). 2. In law: to offer money or goods in settlement of a debt or claim.Tender (noun): 3. The act of tendering; an offer. 4. A formal offer to supply specified goods or services at a stated cost. 5. Something, especially money, used as an official medium of payment (e.g., legal tender).(Source: Collins Concise Dictionary of the English Language, 1985)

 

Arcane Tender has been a recurring theme in my practice, symbolising the universal language shared by artists—a mode of expression transcending local conventions and political constraints. This concept found tangible form during a research trip to Cuba in 2017, supported by the Arts Council of England and the British Council. The title, Arcane Tender, reflects the shared understanding that exists across diverse cultures, enabling artists to communicate ideas despite geographical or ideological barriers.During my visit, I explored contemporary Cuban art and culture, fostering a dialogue between Cuban and British artists. Returning to the UK, I brought a selection of Cuban artworks, classified as "tourist souvenirs" to navigate logistical and political constraints.

 

These pieces later formed the basis of Finding Cuba, an exhibition at the University of Nottingham, showcasing Cuban contemporary art alongside my own work. The Nottingham exhibition featured 11 framed works and two oil paintings by seven Cuban artists and myself and  one documentary filmmaker, one photographer, and one poet. The exhibition highlighted the richness and diversity of Cuban artistic expression, blending emerging voices with established names. A centerpiece of the exhibition was Máscara, a documentary film by internationally acclaimed Cuban filmmaker Pablo Massip, offering insight into the layered narratives of Cuban culture.

 

Looking forward, I aim to build on this project by identifying new venues to exhibit these works and continuing to foster cultural exchange between Cuban and British artists. This micro-exhibition, featuring Cuban contemporary art alongside my own photography and film collaborations, represents an intimate yet impactful dialogue between two artistic communities.