Cuban artist transforms Tobacco leaves into enduring smoke-free art

Bernal's work includes sketches of iconic Cuban figures like Che Guevara and Ernest Hemingway

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Artist Milton Bernal poses for a photo while working in his studio in Havana, Cuba, February 24, 2024.—Reuters
Artist Milton Bernal poses for a photo while working in his studio in Havana, Cuba, February 24, 2024.—Reuters

Renowned Cuban painter, 63-year-old Milton Bernal, has elevated his craft by incorporating a distinct Cuban essence, tobacco leaves, into his artwork.

Bernal, often seen with a cigar in hand, places wet tobacco leaves onto his canvases featuring sketches of iconic Cuban figures like Che Guevara and Ernest Hemingway. The result is a unique masterpiece with the earthy tones of dry tobacco leaves, accentuating the raised texture of veins.

Farmers pick tobacco leaves at a farm in San Juan y Martinez, Cuba, February 27, 2024. — Reuters
Farmers pick tobacco leaves at a farm in San Juan y Martinez, Cuba, February 27, 2024. — Reuters

Tobacco, a symbol of Cuba's national identity and a major export finds new life in Bernal's creations. The artist, who frequents Pinar del Rio province — renowned for its premium tobacco and cigars — handpicks discarded leaves, turning them into pieces displayed globally in homes, restaurants, and hotels.

A view of a tobacco farm in San Juan y Martinez, Cuba, February 27, 2024. —Reuters
A view of a tobacco farm in San Juan y Martinez, Cuba, February 27, 2024. —Reuters

Bernal's proprietary chemical formula preserves the elasticity, colour, and form of the tobacco leaf, ensuring longevity. This process, developed over 20 years ago, involves rolling treated leaves onto artisanal paper, creating art that remains unaffected by environmental conditions.

Artist Milton Bernal works in his studio in Havana, Cuba, February 24, 2024. —Reuters
Artist Milton Bernal works in his studio in Havana, Cuba, February 24, 2024. —Reuters

Describing his innovative approach, Bernal emphasises the harm-free nature of his tobacco-infused art, allowing everyone to appreciate the symbolism and culture embedded in each piece. 

Artist Milton Bernal poses for a photo while working in his studio, in Havana, Cuba, February 24, 2024. —Reuters
 Artist Milton Bernal poses for a photo while working in his studio, in Havana, Cuba, February 24, 2024. —Reuters

With this fusion of tradition and creativity, Bernal's creations continue to captivate audiences, offering a lasting celebration of Cuba's rich heritage.