Artist Profile: Merlinis Hidalgo

Merlinis is "totally, totally naif," as she told me during a visit with her. Merlinis, 40, is self-taught and the mother of a daughter, Milany, who helps around the house while her mother paints. Her focus is on the joyful side of life, and her cheerful paintings reflect an attitude that many in Cuba have -- keeping a positive disposition despite difficult living conditions. This comes, we can say, from Merlinis' upbringing in the campo in Oriente Province, on the southeastern part of the island. She remains a "country girl," something that is expressed in her colorful work. She has exhibited in the state-run galleries in Cuba, as well as in Nice, France and the U.S.

—Ana Weir