By Yoan Litvin, Counterpunch, May 13, 2016
With the recent visit of US President Barack Obama in Cuba and talks of lifting the decades-old embargo (it is still in effect), many Americans are excited at the notion of touring the long estranged Caribbean island. Cuba attracts those fascinated by its complicated history and ardent anti-imperialist modern culture, but it also boasts beautiful beaches, classic cars, colonial architecture, beautiful music and dance, and delicious Cuban cigars complemented by an assortment of Rum drinks. For those literary geeks among us, Cuba offers inspiration in the form of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite hang out spots and watering holes.
But aside from these marketing clichés, any self-respecting tourist must take time to admire the incredible variety of Cuban art. This can be easily achieved by visiting the truly wonderful Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes in Havana and complemented by walking the streets. As a culture led by a staunch and long-time anti-American socialist regime, it should be no surprise that the streets of Cuba’s cities are riddled with political art. Here are some gems:
Art by Martirena.
Famous Cubans immortalized (from right: Guillermo Moncada, Jose Marti, Felix Varela, Camilo Cienfuegos, Fidel Castro, Che Guevara).
Art by Linares.
Art by Adano.
Art by Roland William Ale.
Che Guevara and Hugo Chavez looking up at Simon Bolivar.
Art by Lacoste.
Art by Martirena.
Unknown artist
Art by Javier.
Cuban revolutionary propaganda.
Art by Linares.
Art by Feddor.
Art by Ramses
Art by Lacoste.
Art by Javier.
Art by Osval and Andez.
Art by Andez.
Art by Mongo and Santiago.
Art by Osval.
Stencil featuring a modern version of the spread of the Cuban revolution.
Art by Shekra.
All photos copyright Yoav Litvin.
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