We made a quick stop at the Plaza de la Revolución to see large-scale portraits of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos in the heart of the city. We were able to spend our first full day in Havana. We set off to explore the historic district where Rei led us through book sellers and 18th century arcades in the Plaza de las Armas, so we could get a taste of the art, history and culture that permeate this part of the city. From there, we took a walking tour through old town plazas to see the cathedral, the customs house. and other historic monuments.
After lunch at a swanky restaurant decorated with vibrant sheep paintings, we set out for a visit to the University of Havana. We learned about the history of student activism dating from the independence movement and its close ties to the Cuban Revolution.
Then, we walked to the house of Caridad Regina, a wise and insightful Cuban educator and award-winning artist, who shared her life story both as a student and teacher before, during, and after the Cuban Revolution. She began as an art student, but due to restrictions of the the time, she spent most of her teaching career in the social sciences, and thanks to hard work and dedication, was able to enjoy a rewarding career. Later in life, due to illness, she rekindled her love of art and has been able to show her work in numerous exhibitions. We were fortunate enough to purchase some of her pieces and very much appreciated our time with her.
We finished the day with a pleasant dinner, lively conversation, and a sudden Carribean downpour. On the bus, Berenice, a former student of Jennifer’s, told us about her experiences studying abroad in Cuba. She has been researching dissident art and underground hip-hop which analyzes and critiques the political climate in Cuba and its relationship with the United States.
