BIENNIAL JOURNAL: The largest gallery (+ PHOTOS)

The “Malecón” (seaside esplanade) has once again become one of the most popular spaces of Havana Biennial. “Detrás del Muro” (Behind the Wall) project includes dozens of artists from several countries…

Right now, it is the largest gallery of Cuba: Havana’s Malecon, from the Antonio Maceo Park to the entrance to the tunnel under Havana’s Bay, houses works from dozens of artists participating in the “Behind the Wall” project, one of the most popular proposals of the 13th Havana Biennial.

In the previous edition it was already an authentic public phenomenon… and this year it will undoubtedly be the same. The way these pieces “meet” passers-by ensure an unusual interaction in traditional art exhibition spaces.

Therefore, most of the creators bet on discourses of great social impact: strong messages, suggestive images, emphatic palette… and ludic invitation to dialogue.

The particular architecture of an area, where recently restored buildings or under restoration coexist with real ruins, becomes support, inspiration or even realization of many of the works. To the extent that, at first sight, art merges with what we call everyday life.

Cuban artists share the space with US, Mexican, Spanish creators… in a mixed sequence in which sculpture and art installation prevail.

“Behind the Wall” represents the very core of Havana Biennial: art that breaks elitist schemes and lavishes itself for the satisfaction of the people… and to provoke them, in the best sense of the word.

Translated by Jorge Mesa Benjamin / CubaSi Translation Staff