La Plaza Vieja in Havana currently hosts one of the most interactive and symbolic works of the XV Biennial of Havana. This piece is titled "Cloud of Wood - The Architecture of Desires," created by German sculptor Martin Steinert.
This structure, made of intertwined wooden slats, captures attention with its architectural complexity and has become a canvas for the aspirations, concerns, and hopes of the Cubans who visit it.
On the ribbons, messages reflect a wide range of emotions and thoughts. However, one of the most frequently expressed wishes is "Freedom," a word that resonates profoundly in the context of a Cuba facing economic, social, and political challenges.
Other inscriptions include phrases such as "May Cuba laugh again," "Light for Cuba," "Eat," "A Free Cuba," "I wish to be a millionaire," "A journey," "Love and peace." These messages reveal a mosaic of everyday concerns and collective dreams.
The exhibition will be on display until February 28, 2025. It invites viewers to contemplate its structural complexity and engage with its meaning, providing them with a space for expression.
According to Steinert, "Wood Cloud" seeks to materialize desires in a physical space, serving as a bridge between art and everyday life.
The Havana Biennial, under the motto "Shared Horizons," seeks to establish itself as a significant cultural event.
However, amidst this artistic celebration, the tensions present in Cuban reality cannot be overlooked. The reactions of those who engage with Steinert's work demonstrate how art can serve as both a reflection and an outlet for society.
The Biennial aims to project an image of dynamism and cultural openness, but the voices captured in the "Wooden Cloud" challenge the official narrative.
In a country where public expressions are often restricted, this work becomes a unique space where individual thoughts emerge with a honesty that rarely resonates in other forums.
Steinert's work reminds us that the true power of art lies in its ability to connect with people and provide them a platform to be heard on their own terms.
Filed under: