francisco santiago cruz

When we telephone the son of Francisco, the first question is about how is Francisco , is he well. Some years ago Francisco suffered a stroke which left his left arm weak.  He was later hit by car and this has made walking difficult. He is now 87 years old. Valente's answer is that he is in good health and working and that new works are coming along. At the moment he is making a goatherd with his goats and shepherd playing music to his flock -  photographs will follow.

Francisco carves, assembles and paints scenes of everyday rural life, with a  direct and simple eye. In this he is unique and he provides us with an important record. As you can see in this photograph he is looking at me, recording me, as much as  my camera is recording him.