Taller Experimental de Gráfica

Tucked away at the end of the cobblestoned Callejón del Chorro in Habana Vieja, the Taller Experimental de Gráfica (TEG) is a sensory-rich sanctuary where the mechanical clatter of 19th-century printing presses breathes life into contemporary Cuban art.

What to expect — what visitors actually see/do

Stepping inside the TEG feels like entering a living archive. The space is dominated by massive, heavy-duty iron presses and rows of drying racks draped with fresh, ink-heavy prints. Unlike a sterile museum, this is a working cooperative; you will see artists hunched over stone lithography slabs or carving intricate designs into linoleum blocks, their hands stained with pigment. The air is thick with the sharp, industrial scent of oil-based inks and solvents.

Visitors are free to wander the floor, observe the printmaking process, and browse the racks of original limited-edition works. You are purchasing directly from the studio, meaning you can often speak with the creators themselves. The staff are accustomed to casual visitors, but maintain a respectful distance to allow the artists to work undisturbed.

History & significance — brief background

Founded in 1962, the Taller Experimental de Gráfica was established by a group of prominent Cuban artists—including Orlando Suárez and Carmelo González—to preserve and promote the traditional graphic arts. In the aftermath of the Cuban Revolution, the Taller became a hub for experimentation, blending classical European techniques with a distinct, bold Cuban aesthetic. It remains one of the most important centers for printmaking in Latin America, serving as both a professional studio for masters and an educational haven for emerging students.

Practical tips — opening hours norms, tickets, queues, best time of day

Hours: Generally open daily from approximately 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though "Cuban time" applies; unexpected closures for holidays or artist events are possible.
Admission: There is typically no formal entry fee, but a small voluntary donation or a purchase is considered polite.
Best time to visit: Aim for mid-morning (around 10:30 AM). You avoid the midday heat and the peak cruise ship crowds, and you are more likely to catch the master printers actively at work before their afternoon break.
Purchasing: If you find a piece you love, request a certificate of authenticity. The Taller handles the paperwork required to legally export art from Cuba, ensuring your print clears customs without issue.

Getting there — neighbourhood, transport

The studio is located at Callejón del Chorro No. 62, right off the Plaza de la Catedral in the heart of Old Havana (Habana Vieja). It is entirely pedestrianized and best reached on foot while exploring the UNESCO-listed colonial core. If you are staying in Vedado or Centro Habana, take a vintage taxi to the edge of the pedestrian zone near the Cathedral, then walk the final block.

Nearby — 2-3 sights or eats within walking distance