A traveling exhibit of pictures taken in 1933 Cuba by photojournalist Walker Evans — which inspired American modernist author Ernest Hemingway’s novel, “To Have Or Have Not” — is coming to the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art from April 17 to June 12.

Organized by Art2Art Curating Exhibitions, SAMA’s Altoona location will feature 44 photographs from Hemingway’s personal collection, along with two showings of the 1944 movie, “To Have Or Have Not.”

According to the press release, Evans encountered Hemingway in Havana, Cuba, where they captured the ordinary lives of Cubans together through photography and literature. Evans’ photos became part of Hemingway’s personal collection, which influenced his fifth novel that follows a fishing boat captain in Key West and Cuba.

“Evans’ photography style doesn’t just document Cuba–it captures the very atmosphere and human textures that Hemingway transformed into fiction,” said Jodi Peachey, SAMA site director.

As a history lover, Peachey said the multi-faceted exhibit will catch the attention of those also interested in the arts, whether it be literature, photography or film.

And she said two famous artists will appeal to visitors on many levels.

“Visitors will see the Cuba that inspired literary history, through the lens of one of America’s greatest and most influential photographers, treasured by one of its greatest writers,” she said.

Director of Operations Sandra Hampton also said that each photograph tells a vivid story like Hemingway’s literary prose.

“Visitors are invited to step into these moments, experiencing firsthand the landscapes, moods, and humanity that shaped one of America’s most enduring voices,” she said.

SAMA will host two movie showings slated for May 3 at 2 p.m. and May 8 at 6 p.m.

Mirror Staff Writer Colette Costlow is at 814-946-7414.