Maria Elena Fuster

“As a first-generation Cuban American artist, my work focuses on exploring the liminal space of “Ni de aqui, Ni de alla”- neither from here, nor from there, capturing the complexities of identity, belonging, and resilience. Through mixed media paintings and fiber sculptures, I examine the intersection of my Cuban heritage and American upbringing, immersing myself in the emotional landscape shaped by my experiences as a woman.

The expressive quality and personal symbolism present in my paintings convey cultural narratives and the resilience that arises from challenging them. The incorporation of stitching, textiles, and found objects reflects both fragmentation and healing. These works are not merely aesthetic; they embody inner dialogues that foster conversations that traverse borders and challenges perceptions of what it means to belong.

My fiber sculptures further express themes of strength and fragility, mirroring the duality of my lived experience. I weave narratives that speak to ancestral bonds while addressing contemporary challenges faced by women at cultural intersections. Utilizing found objects and recycled materials, often dismissed as trash, serves as a metaphor for life, illustrating the constant possibilities of change, growth, and healing. Their tactile nature invites the viewer into a shared space of introspection and encourages an exploration of personal and collective histories.”

Maria Elena Fuster, 2026

Image: No Me Escuchan (2022)

Hemp cording and paper

15 in. x 16 in.