Cuban Artist Asks Compatriots to Share Their Dreams for the Future

There has been much speculation about Cuba’s possible transformation into the latest art world hot spot in the wake of the recent diplomatic reunion with the U.S. But the more pressing story perhaps lies in the reactions of Cuban artists and thinkers to the major changes afoot in their country.

Internationally acclaimed avant-garde artist Tania Bruguera, who is best known for her politically provocative work, is asking fellow Cubans to share their dreams for the future of the island in a participatory performance piece that will take place on December 30.

Art Daily reports that Bruguera will set up a microphone in Havana’s Revolution Square. Participants will be given one minute to articulate their vision for the Cuba of tomorrow, provided they do not “call for violence, discrimination, attacks on individuals, illegal acts or violent actions against the public order,” according to a press release.

She is calling the movement “Yo tambien exijo,” which translates to “I also demand.” The custom hashtag is #YoTambienExijo.

“The work will be an artistic event that will allow Cubans to stand up and speak in their own voices about the issues concerning them on the verge of starting a new year,” explains Bruguera, who divides her time between Cuba, France, and the U.S.

According to the Miami Herald, authorities have denied Bruguera permission to hold the event. The artist was told that the gathering was not welcome at this time because “the action would negatively impact public opinion, in a key time of negotiation between the Cuban government and the government of the United States, in which they seek to reestablish their diplomatic and commercial relations in full.”

“I’ll be there. I’m not going to hide. I’m not doing anything wrong. I am just exercising my citizen rights,” she responded.