The renowned Cuban painter Javier Guerra has died at the age of 54, "in his beloved Cuba," as confirmed by the National Council of Plastic Arts (CNAP) on social media, along with tributes from friends and family. A close source revealed that the artist passed away in the early hours of October 11. "He lived like the bohemian characters of tales, like those cursed poets for whom night was day and day was night," the source summarized without detailing the cause of death.
One of Guerra's friends urged against speculation about his passing, writing: "No speculation about what happened. Today, I spent the day with YoYi, family, and close friends; he died where he wanted, 'in Cuba.' In his world, at his parties, he passed away on his own terms. 'Farewell, machete,' you will always be in our hearts."
A Legacy Remembered
Activist Lara Crofs also shared her sorrow over Guerra's death, reminiscing about their shared moments on the Isle of Youth. "I met him over 20 years ago, curated three exhibitions for him, and we worked together several times. I cherish enormous memories—the trips to the Isle, the expo in Italy, and countless evenings on my terrace, the gardens of the Hotel Nacional, or at the Madrigal bar. Everyone who knew you, in one way or another, carries fond memories of the artist, the friend, the man you were. See you in another realm, Javico; may light accompany you wherever you go," Crofs expressed on Facebook.
Career and Achievements
Javier Guerra, an alumnus of the Elementary School of Art in the Isle of Youth (1984) and the National School of Art (1988), had over fifteen solo exhibitions across Cuba, the United States, and Spain, along with numerous group shows, as noted by the CNAP. He was awarded the First Prize at the Erotic Art Salon hosted by La Acacia gallery in 2000 and contributed to various social projects, including environmental works, commemorative murals, designs, and stage settings.
He also depicted historical figures from Cuba, telling the state-run media outlet Cubadebate, "I never cling to a theme; I simply live the circumstances of the time I'm in, whether in or out of Cuba. Thus, the most diverse characters and moments in history arrive on the canvas, paper, or whatever medium, and I reflect them from pure inspiration. That's what happened with the 'Barbudos' exhibit and later the series on banknotes, which, in fact, has nothing to do with money. I am unsure when a theme comes or goes; I just capture the lights that illuminate my spirit."