The Cuban state-controlled media mourns the passing of Humberto Lázaro Miranda Ramírez (LAZ), a prominent cartoonist who passed away at the age of 64. For many years, he contributed his artistic talents to the official newspaper Juventud Rebelde. The state outlet Cubadebate announced his death, recognizing his unique ability to capture Cuban reality with a traditionalist lens.
From an early age, LAZ was immersed in the world of drawing, beginning his collaboration with the magazine Pionero during his teenage years. A graduate in Visual Arts and a member of the Dedeté humor group, LAZ was known for his work as a sign painter, comic artist, illustrator, and caricaturist. His art spanned various genres, including general graphic humor, political satire, and personal caricature, as noted by the mentioned state portal.
Throughout his distinguished career, LAZ participated in over a hundred collective and individual exhibitions and earned around a hundred national awards alongside numerous international recognitions. His work gained appreciation beyond Cuban borders, featuring in events and workshops in countries like Italy, Greece, Mexico, Colombia, and the United States.
On social media, colleagues and friends expressed heartfelt condolences, celebrating not only his talent as a cartoonist but also his exceptional human qualities. Journalist Francisnet Díaz Rondón shared, “My friend LAZ has passed away, a master cartoonist and a dear friend, passionate about Industriales to his core, a maestro of humor. His loss is immeasurable.” Díaz recounted personal stories with LAZ, highlighting his humility, perseverance, and the deep bonds he maintained with friends and colleagues: “LAZ was a fighter from a young age (...) he had much to express through his art. He often thought of himself as unlucky and fought against it, never giving up.”
Journalist Bolivia Tamara Cruz Martínez also shared her sorrow on behalf of colleagues from Palante and Juventud Rebelde, wishing him "light on his journey to eternity." Meanwhile, cartoonist César Carrizo recalled shared moments with LAZ within the context of Latin American graphic humor, reminiscing about his ironic yet sensitive words: “Times are tough, my brother, even white folks are being asked for documents.”
The death of Humberto Lázaro Miranda (LAZ) adds to a series of significant losses in Cuba’s cultural and social landscape. Recently, the passing of Aris Teresa Bruzos, the beloved actress known for her portrayal of the iconic character Evarista in Cuban cinema, deeply touched many who grew up appreciating her humor and warmth.
Another notable figure who recently passed was guitarist Benito “Beny” Suárez, celebrated for his virtuosity and dedication to Cuban popular music, making the guitar an emblem of national identity. The academic and scientific community also mourns the loss of Professor Mercedes Lina Cathcart, a respected voice in the pedagogical training of numerous Cuban generations, and a symbol of committed public teaching.
Additionally, public health bid farewell to former Minister Julio Teja Pérez, a pivotal figure in developing the national healthcare system over decades, whose work was marked by the structural challenges of the sector on the island.
Insights into the Life and Legacy of Humberto Lázaro Miranda (LAZ)
What were Humberto Lázaro Miranda's notable achievements?
Humberto Lázaro Miranda, known as LAZ, participated in over a hundred exhibitions worldwide and received nearly a hundred national awards and numerous international recognitions.
How did LAZ contribute to Cuban culture?
LAZ enriched Cuban culture through his work as a cartoonist, offering unique perspectives on Cuban life and politics through his art in Juventud Rebelde and other platforms.
What impact did LAZ have internationally?
LAZ's work was recognized internationally, being featured in events and workshops in countries such as Italy, Greece, Mexico, Colombia, and the United States.