Abstract

GAITER, Colette. Artistas negros y raza en EE. UU. y Cuba. Reflexiones después del medio siglo de la liberación y los derechos civiles. UH [online]. 2018, n.285, pp.197-212. ISSN 0253-9276.

Contrasts and similarities between the work of some contemporary Afro-Cuban and African American artists reflect differences in each society's attitudes about art and race. Black artists in both countries take on race as subject matter, with different societal impact. In Cuba, the voices of artists seem to have more agency within the society's political self-image. Some artists are also comfortable commenting on the U. S. through their work. Works by Afro-Cuban artists that critique U. S. society and politics appear to be more favorably received internationally than protest art by African American artists that addresses racial issues. The visibility and volatility of race relations in the U. S. ironically and effectively diminishes the impact of art that critiques those conditions. Artists of the African diaspora in both countries utilize art's potential for raising awareness and ultimately effecting progressive societal changes.

Keywords : Afro-Cuban art; African American art; Queloides exhibition; Black Lives Matter; Havana Biennial; Alexis Esquivel; Hank Willis Thomas; Kara Walker; Alexandre Arrechea; African diaspora artists; Sugar Sphinx.

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