Farming in Cuba

When people think of Cuba, they think of classic cars, resorts along beautiful beaches, or stories of "old" Havana. Most of that is true, but deep in the countryside of this relatively small island are farmers working to support their families as well as the economy of Cuba. The work on these collective farms exists despite the challenges of a government that doesn't always function as well as it should.

This documentary photography project is a visual documentation of farmers who support Cuba’s complicated agricultural system and who exemplify how Cuba imagined agriculture could exist to support a socialist economy.  However, it also shows the impact of their work on their lives and the contrast to the spirit of socialism as they know it.

Coming from a variety of backgrounds; from children of Santeria priests who live deep in the mountainside, to university-educated economists, and men with multiple jobs including running small businesses. Some farmers take whatever work someone needs done and a mechanic who has cattle that he supports by fixing ancient lawnmowers, tractors, and bulldozers.

In between their work and sleep is the essence of a collective community where people support each other, enjoy each other’s company, and handle the challenges of living in Cuba with grace, humor, and solidarity.

Daniel Hoffman

Daniel Hoffman is a New Jersey-based photographer with experience photographing in over 32 countries.  Often on self-funded projects, Hoffman has completed contract work for major universities and NGOs.  Hoffman has worked in a wide range of settings including shantytowns in Brazil and Kenya and large urban cities in developing countries.