"El Secreto"

Delve into the enigmatic narrative of "El Secreto" (The Secret), an intriguing original work by Cuban master Roger Ayala. This painting captures a moment of shared intimacy and silence, inviting the viewer to lean in and listen.

The composition features a female subject in Ayala’s signature "split-face" style, where one side is illuminated in warm yellow and the other recedes into cool grey shadow—a visual representation of the things we show the world versus the things we keep hidden. Her hand is raised delicately near her face, a gesture suggesting she is either whispering a confidence to the stitched doll she cradles or protecting a shared secret.

Two small birds perch atop her head, acting as silent observers in this quiet conspiracy. The palette is moody yet inviting, utilizing slate greys, ochres, and earth tones to create an atmosphere of mystery and trust.

The Artist: Roger Ayala (b. 1950)

A graduate of the Provincial School of Plastic Arts in Pinar del Río, Cuba, Roger Ayala has built a career on exploring the relationship between humanity and nature. His "split-face" technique—often used to show duality—is used here with great subtlety to highlight the shift between the outer world and inner thought. His works are officially recognized by the Fondo de Bienes Culturales and are treasured in international private collections.

Key Features

• Artist: Roger Ayala (Cuba)

• Title: El Secreto (The Secret)

• Year: 2025

• Dimensions: 19.5 x 13 inches

• Style: Figurative Expressionism / Surrealism

• Palette: Slate Grey, Ochre, Yellow, Earth Tones

• Motifs: Hand Gesture, Stitched Doll, Birds, Duality

Collector’s Note

"El Secreto" is a storytelling piece. It engages the imagination, prompting the viewer to wonder about the narrative behind the gaze, making it a compelling conversation starter for any collection.