Fábrica de Arte

It is surprising that many of Cuba's most revolutionary and outspoken individuals are the island's artists. Instead of being hushed by the famously domineering government, these creatives—painters, sculptors, photographers, musicians, poets and philosophers—are revered as celebrities, in accordance with Socialism's emphasis on intellectual endeavors. In an Orwellian-appropriate twist, those who make public comments on the state and its flaws through art are some of the country's wealthiest individuals and enjoy certain freedoms—such as exit visas to leave Cuba—that are not available to the mass population.

Fabrica de Arte is a collective housed in a former factory, adjacent to El Cocinero in the Vedado neighborhood. Exhibitions are rotating but encourage visitors to walk around, look, listen, admire and enjoy a mojito in the two lounges. The space stands as a reminder that we are at an important juncture in Cuban history. The artists of the country are in some ways leading a cultural revolution, aided by changes in the government and international relations.