XAVIER CUGAT. Self-portrait.

Drawing with pen and colored pencils on paper
Signed
24x34 cm

Xavier Cugat (Girona, 1 January 1900-Barcelona, 27 October 1990) is well known for his contribution to Latin music as a conductor and composer. However, his artistic talent also included drawing and caricature.
Before achieving fame in the music world, Cugat moved to Cuba with his family and then to the United States. In his early years in the United States, he worked as a cartoonist for Los Angeles Times, where he demonstrated a great talent for caricature. That job allowed him to interact with the entertainment industry and Hollywood stars, creating caricatures that captured the essence and humour of many celebrities of the time.
His drawing skills were reflected in his unique style and his ability to exaggerate the most distinctive features of his subjects, creating memorable and lively images. In addition, his work as a cartoonist contributed to his visibility and popularity in show business, which opened him doors that would later lead to his success in music.
Alongside his work in newspapers, Cugat also used his artistic skills to create album covers and promotional posters for his musical performances. This multifaceted talent made Cugat a unique and versatile figure in 20th Century pop culture.