Art, Reality, Belonging
Musings from the ‘74 Community
JOSÉ PARLÁ
A lifelong explorer of memory, place, and identity, José Parlá reflects on what’s real, what defines belonging, and where art and life intersect. Rooted in Cuban heritage and based in New York, his work continues to evolve across continents—with exhibitions currently on view in Miami and Brooklyn, and soon in Tokyo.
Where are you from and where are you now?
My roots are Cuban, I was born in Miami, raised in Puerto Rico, and I am in New York now.
What are you working on recently?
Exhibitions on view now are at Pérez Art Museum Miami, Brooklyn Museum and upcoming at Pola Museum Annex, Tokyo.
A quote you live by?
Humans have no special right because they belong to one race or another. The word ‘human’ defines all rights. (José Martí)
A space you return to time after time?
My studio.
Your goal for 2025?
Study and discover great music.
What does the word ‘real’ mean to you?
Everything and nothing at the same time.
What defines your reality?
My memories and the moment.
Where is it that you most feel like you belong?
New York City.
Your favorite neighborhood?
Fort Greene, Brooklyn.
What holds the most power to alter your perceptions?
Yagé.
Something for now obscure or intangible that you’d most like to know?
Cuba’s complete freedom from oppression.
The relationship of art with reality, for you?
Art, love, family and friends are reality for me.
Istanbul in three words?
ISTHMUS IS BEAUTIFUL!
What’s the real deal?
Nature.