Returning from Cuba: A Journey of Rediscovery

When photographer Michal Greenbaum was tasked with capturing the small Jewish community of Cuba, she initially hesitated. "Despite my extensive experience in photography," she notes, "most of my work had focused on nature and still life. I rarely had the chance to photograph people, yet I decided to take on the project. At that time, I had no idea what this would lead to."

(Photography works: Michal Greenbaum)

Clinging to Judaism

Michal flew to the Jewish community in Cuba and encountered a small, impoverished group with a deep-rooted connection to their heritage. "Before leaving, I did extensive research and discovered that although the community had dwindled over the past decades, it was once a large Jewish community with about 12,000 members. Over the years, many left due to Fidel Castro's oppressive regime.

"Interestingly, unlike other countries where assimilation is rampant, Cuba still hosts families fiercely dedicated to maintaining their Jewish identity. They marry only Jews or converted non-Jews, adhering strictly to their traditions. A mohel visits annually for circumcisions, and rabbis come to officiate weddings. Their resilience in preserving Judaism was astounding."

A Life-Altering Journey

Michal completed her journey in Cuba and returned to the U.S., where she lived at the time. "I reflected on the Cuban community's survival over the years and couldn't help but think about myself," she shares. "It struck me that the Jewish community thrives because they are truly committed to their faith. This revelation was profound. Although I always identified as religious, my practice was habitual rather than heartfelt. The journey in Cuba opened my eyes to the treasures I held and had not fully appreciated, leading me to remarkable places."

As Michal recounts her experience, she displays numerous photographs from Cuba, illustrating life in the underdeveloped areas. The houses are old and windows broken, yet such a backdrop yielded a profound Jewish richness, she marvels.

(Photography works: Michal Greenbaum)

Her photo exhibit in Cuba was later showcased in Barcelona, earning Michal an award. However, she was already looking ahead, certain that her life was about to change.

"I lived in the U.S. then, but the Cuba trip deeply impacted me," she explains. "I realized I couldn't remain so far from the homeland of my Jewish roots. So, I decided to return to Israel—to come home."

Journey Home

Michal's new exhibition, "Journey Home," is set in the Holy Land. It opens on March 15 and runs for the month at 'Beit Ot HaMutsar HaYerushalmi', showcasing photos from her Cuba trip and her personal journey. The exhibit is curated by Galit Zimbalista.

"I grew up in Pardes Hanna, and my most nostalgic moments are from there," she reflects. "This exhibit pieces together images and feelings from all the places I've been, from my pastoral childhood in Pardes Hanna to the alienation and displacement felt in the U.S. I explore not only my emotions but also those of my grandparents: their fears and insecurities in Europe, the harsh realities of war, and today's spiritual and physical challenges. My exhibit is a deep connection, as it portrays not just nature but the portrait of my life."

(Photography works: Michal Greenbaum)

(Photography works: Michal Greenbaum)

(Photography works: Michal Greenbaum)