Painted Voices: Havana's Urban Art and the Shaping of Cuban National Identity
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Abstract
Cuba has long been a hub for artistic expression, with Cuban art evolving alongside the country’s shifting political and social landscapes. This research paper examines street and urban art in Havana’s public spaces, exploring how these works reflect and amplify the voices of Cuban society. Conducted through firsthand observation, this study analyzes these artworks in the context of Cuban history and current socio-political conditions, arguing that urban art is a vital outlet for expressing frustrations, ideals, and hopes in a society with limited free expression. This research also addresses a gap in art historical scholarship, as Cuba’s rich artistic traditions, especially in street art, are often overlooked. For instance, searching “European Art” on Google Scholar yields 7,750,000 results, while “Latin American Art” returns only 4,460,000. By focusing on Cuba’s public art, this paper aims to deepen understanding of the intersection between art, politics, and identity in modern Cuba.