The XV Havana Biennial, which kicked off on November 15, 2024, has stirred significant controversy among artists, citizens, and social media observers. Traditionally a celebration of the richness of both Cuban and international contemporary art, this year's event unfolds against a backdrop of economic and social turmoil, intensifying the criticism surrounding its execution.
With the visibly crumbling Malecón as a backdrop and dilapidated buildings in sight, this year's Biennial has been labeled by independent artists as a display of "conceptual and technical mediocrity." Many believe that the setting does not highlight the artworks but rather highlights the nation's crisis. "It's the iconography of a country's total devastation," one artist remarked to CiberCuba.
The cultural event, which will run until February 2025, is perceived as an attempt by authorities to project an image of normalcy and progress to the outside world, in stark contrast to the everyday reality faced by most Cubans. Social media users have described this as "another smokescreen to cover up the reality we live in."
Social Media: A Voice of Dissent
Frustration has flooded social media platforms, where Cubans express their discontent over what they see as misallocated resources during a time of dire need. A video shared on CiberCuba unleashed a torrent of comments from outraged Cubans who view the event as more propagandistic than cultural.
"Just what the people needed," one user commented, criticizing the authorities' lack of concern for the population's basic needs. "And when will we get food and medicine?" questioned another. "While art blossoms, the people wither," reflected a third.
"Art is important, but it can't be a priority amid such need"; "Bread and circuses for the people, but without the bread"; "How long will they keep ignoring the true needs of the people?" others remarked. "Another smokescreen to hide the reality we live in"; "How much did this Biennial cost and how many families could have been helped with that money?"; "Culture is vital, but not at the expense of people's suffering," other internet users expressed.
The overwhelming consensus in the comments on CiberCuba's post is that the XV Havana Biennial is "another sign of the complete disconnect between the government and its people."
Artistic Community Critique
Independent artists have been particularly harsh with the Biennial. In communication with this outlet, they denounce the lack of coherence between the displayed works and the urban context in which they are set, labeling many of them as lacking purpose and quality. Adding to this criticism is the concern about how art, instead of being a tool to denounce the country's situation, is used to beautify a landscape of decay.
Is Art a Distraction?
Cuba's situation in 2024 is dire: constant blackouts, shortages of basic food, understocked hospitals, and a massive exodus of its population. Against this backdrop, the Biennial is seen as an attempt by cultural authorities to divert public attention. "Art is a medium for reflection, but it cannot be an excuse to ignore the crisis," a social media commentator opined.
Although some defend the idea that art should thrive even in adversity, for many, the XV Havana Biennial is not an event that inspires hope or resilience. Instead, it serves as a painful reminder of the Cuban government's misaligned priorities. The Biennial has ceased to be a celebration of creativity and has become a mirror reflecting the ruins of a nation that, according to the voice of its people, "is at war, but without bombs."
Understanding the Controversy Surrounding the Havana Biennial
What sparked the controversy over the XV Havana Biennial?
The controversy was ignited by the Biennial's setting amidst economic and social turmoil, with many criticizing the event as a governmental attempt to mask the nation's ongoing crises.
How have independent artists reacted to the Biennial?
Independent artists have criticized the Biennial for its lack of coherence between the artworks and their urban context, describing many pieces as lacking purpose and quality.
What role has social media played in the Biennial debate?
Social media has served as a platform for Cubans to voice their frustration and critique the Biennial as a misallocation of resources during a time of need.