The Cuban Vanguardia movement took a lot inspiration from popular European art styles. Modern European art was well-liked by the Cuban people and artists. Some art drew ideas from from the work of Picasso, likes works by Wilfredo Lam. These eye-catching and colorful art genres would go on to be utilized by Cuban artists for pro-communist propaganda. A lot of the art that came had simple designs but was very atypical with vibrant colors. These newer art genres provided a new means of refreshing Cuban Culture, while being used as a message. A lot of propaganda came in either the forms of paintings or posters. Propaganda would feature communist ideals, images of Castro, anti-American messages, etc. The art was very creative, colorful, flashy and sometimes cartoonish. With museums in Cuba featuring such propaganda items. Much of the featured art is highly anti-American, constantly sending a pro-socialist/communist message. For example, Corso de Palenzuela’s paintings of Che Guevara became major symbols of the communist movement throughout Latin-America. Popular images of Che taken by Alberto Korda are still commonly shown in modern socialist movements. A common theme throughout the art is depicting Cuban life. However, the amount of views and and perspectives is very narrow as those with differing standpoints had to go to exile. A lot of the art was to help Castro’s regime spread his messages to the Cuban people. He could manipulate through popular art, helping himself and the communist party. So, there were a minimal amount of diversity when it comes to political expression.
Monday, January 2, 2023
Cuba: A Nation of Vibrant Art
Art in Cuba has become a major part of the regular cultural. With it being commonly sold in the street markets. From art with socialist inspiration, European painting styles, Cuban life, etc. There are also popular artworks such as paintings, sculptures, and drawings by Cuban artists throughout the world in museums. Since shifting to European and Modern art styles, Cuba has created a strong international art market. With even some Cuban art being sold for millions of dollars. As time progressed, artists realized they were financially dependent on the foreign market. This led to some change in artistic style shifting from socialist views to more individual ideas. The artists saw the incentive to make more money and started breaking their own core beliefs. Perhaps this could speak to some of the flaws of a communist government. The artists are unable to make a livable pure domestic revenue stream. So, the artists were willing to transform and betray their values. This further strengthens capitalism, while emphasizing another failure of communism. Foreign art sales could potentially make ten times the money of pieces sold inside of Cuba. This draw is too high for desperate artists to shy away from. If I were in their position, I would try my best to make as much money as possible. Especially, when there are some trying to support families. The importance of finances is amplified for them.
Questions:
Do the Cuban people genuinely enjoy the communist propaganda? How has the communist approval from Cubans changed over time?
How many Cubans aspire to work in the arts?
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuban_art
https://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/30/arts/cubas-art-scene-awaits-a-travel-boom.html?_r=0
https://www.pbs.org/video/frontlineworld-cuba-the-art-revolution/
file:///C:/Users/brian/Downloads/Art%20in%20a%20Changing%20Cuba%20.pdf
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ReplyDeleteThis post highlights some interesting aspects of the artisan community of Cuba. The theme of propaganda within Cuban art is prevalent throughout the post. Artists use of propaganda in Cuba varies from influence to necessity. I do not believe that the general public 'enjoys' propaganda, they simply have to deal with it in their daily lives and try to make the best of a bad situation.
This was a really nice post and you pose some interesting questions.
ReplyDeleteI imagine public perception of propaganda in art is probably mixed towards positive. From all the materials provided, Cuban citizens seem to be happy and their art is one of the things they pride themselves on. The propaganda in the artistic works likely strengthens their feelings of pride and appreciation of their country and freedoms. Though it is hard as an outsider to say for certain how the people really feel about the art as well as the government or even how many citizens desire to be artists.
This was a very informative and interesting post! I wish the United States wasn't depicted so badly in Cuban propaganda, but I suppose they have had good reasons to do so. Regarding your question about the Cuban people enjoying Communist propaganda, I believe that the majority of them do enjoy it, unfortunately. The pressure made by censorship forces them to think and believe certain information, and thinking in any other way is likely looked down upon.
ReplyDeleteI suppose that the older Cubans enjoy more of the communist propaganda than the younger ones. Maybe because they are not as interested in a bigger revolution than older adults. However, I think now more than ever Cubans and other young people wan to be artists because culture is extremely important for the future of Cuba and culture is already super important to Latinos.
ReplyDeleteI think the propaganda that was created for Cuba socialism was enjoyed by some. While it included ideas not liked by some most Cuban citizens understood they did not have a choice. Artist chose to embrace a lot of the censorship but made it a point to hide their messages. I think for this and because of the quality of the art, the propaganda was enjoyed.
ReplyDeleteHi Brian,
ReplyDeleteThe Cuban education system strongly pushes socialist ideals. This leads me to believe that many can appreciate propaganda since it aligns with what they're taught. For various reasons, many Cubans become artists on some level, though it is often due to the mixture of extensive art education and low income.