My

My
Cuban journey was inspired by Hemingway’s Pulitzer-winning
novel The Old Man and the Sea, which tells the tale of Santiago, an
aging fisherman who struggles with a giant marlin far out in the
Gulf Stream. Upon reading I thought: what would life have been like
in that sea town almost 100 years ago?

Today, a few miles east of Havana, Cojímar remains a small
harbour town. The writer’s legacy persists here through stories
passed down at the bar where he often drank during his 21 years
living in the area. Along the sea wall, a memorial featuring
Hemingway’s bust sits under six tall columns.

The town’s simple life is its draw. Quiet streets, fruiting
mango trees and welcoming people offer what I believe is a true
representation of Cuba. It was these unseen vignettes of a once
censored country that I was keen to capture. Faces smile, resilient
and optimistic, despite being weathered by political and economic
turmoil.

It’s this determination that I took away from my trip – and what
will inspire me to return. This series features images from both
Cojímar and Havana, something I felt necessary to highlight the two
very different parts of Cuba. I encourage those who have not
visited this seaside town to venture beyond the capital and be
inspired for themselves.

@reedjkenney | reedjkenney.com