July 11 S.O.S Cuba

On July 11, 2021, thousands of Cubans spontaneously took to the streets in dozens of cities to protest, in numbers not seen in decades. People participated in the protests to demand Liberty and Democracy in Cuba. The protests responded not only to the shortages of food, personal hygiene items and medicine, the constant blackouts and lack of electricity, but also to the restrictive measures taken by the government to “control” Covid-19 transmission, and to the state’s historic policy of repression, which has violated freedom of expression and peaceful assembly for years. S.O.S Cuba is a powerful work of art that encapsulates the collective voice of the oppressed and marginalized population of this country asking the world for help. In this thought-provoking piece, the artist channels the frustrations, struggles, and aspirations of people who feel invisible and disenfranchised. The composition of the artwork represents a diverse group of individuals, representing different ages, genders, and backgrounds, united in their quest for freedom. Their expressions convey a variety of emotions, including determination, resilience, and a yearning for justice. Three vibrant colors dominate the canvas, symbolizing the energy and passion that fuel your desire for change. Brushstrokes are dynamic and expressive, reflecting the urgency and intensity of their plea. Within the artwork, symbolic images and metaphors are incorporated to convey the exploitation and mistreatment suffered by people. Jails and other visual elements represent the oppressive forces they are facing, while nature elements or wings symbolize their yearning for liberation and lost peace. “S.O.S Cuba” serves as a poignant reminder of the power of art to convey social and political messages. It talks about the resistance of those who have been silenced and marginalized, inviting viewers to reflect on the importance of collective action and the search for justice in the face of oppression.

Artist: Minos Azahares 

Category : Painting

Medium : Oil on Canvas with Cooper Wire

Signature : Signed and Dated

Size : 60" X 204" 

Year : 2023