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The Higher Institute of Industrial Design (ISDI), one of the most emblematic academic institutions in Havana, was completely looted after being left unguarded.
The art director of ICAIC, Luis Lacosta, denounced this unfortunate situation in a post on Facebook and described the incident as "total alarming vandalism."
Lacosta explained that the building, located on Belascoaín Street in the Centro Habana municipality, had been left unguarded after a partial collapse at one of its corners, a situation that was taken advantage of by individuals who, according to nearby residents, began to steal furniture, drafting tables, televisions, air conditioners, and institutional documents.
The art director stated that the looting not only resulted in the loss of material resources but also in the loss of degree theses, presentations, and historical archives that were part of the institute's heritage.
"This is more than concerning. Since the collapse, it seems like it was left unguarded and everything was taken away. Even doors and windows have disappeared," he wrote.
Lacosta questioned the lack of response from the authorities regarding what happened and demanded explanations on how a university institution could be left abandoned to the point of being devastated.
"What answers can the Cuban state provide to the people? Are our museums safe now that crime knows the value of our heritage?" he asked.
In the photographs shared by the artist, one can see the gaps where doors and windows once were, even the main one, confirming the extent of deterioration and lack of protection of the property.
The complaint has sparked outrage on social media, where alumni and design professionals have mourned the loss of what was for decades a benchmark for artistic and technical education in Cuba.
So far, the Cuban authorities have not issued any official statements regarding the looting or the current conditions of the ISDI building.
Lacosta's complaint comes just a few days after Esteban Aquino, a graduate of ISDI three decades ago, highlighted on social media a regrettable situation regarding the research, theses, and books held by the higher education institution.
Aquino shared on his Facebook profile a gallery of images showcasing historical documents, diploma works, and specialized bibliographies scattered on the ground like mere trash.
Furthermore, he stated that this material was found discarded like trash in Carlos J. Finlay Park in Havana, an incident that has caused outrage among alumni, professionals in the field, and advocates for cultural heritage.
The ISDI is facing one of the most critical stages in its recent history. The collapse of a part of its headquarters in Centro Habana marked the beginning of an unstoppable deterioration, following years of ignored warnings about structural failures.
Despite being shored up since 2022, the building continued to be in use until the precariousness overcame institutional inaction.
The day following the collapse brought even more devastating images. Part of the building completely collapsed, leaving an elderly woman injured and four families homeless.
Voices from the academic community characterized the event as a reflection of the country: "the collapse of ISDI is also the collapse of Cuba," wrote a designer graduate on social media, amidst a wave of outrage that resonated strongly both within and outside the university sphere.
Far from finding solace in their authorities, students and graduates denounced the authoritarianism of the dean, whom they accused of ideological repression and disconnection from technological reality.
Her statement that "the internet is not needed for design" generated widespread rejection and was seen as a symbol of a management team disconnected from the present and indifferent to the needs of an increasingly precarious community.
In an attempt to escape from the physical and symbolic collapse, ISDI announced its move to the former Politécnico Pablo de la Torriente Brau in Playa. The original location was officially declared uninhabitable, marking the end of more than four decades in the heart of Havana.
Authorities promise a phase of reconstruction, although doubts remain about the future of the center and the institutional capacity to remedy years of neglect that have left scars on the memory of Cuban design.
Frequently Asked Questions about the looting of ISDI in Centro Habana
What happened at the Higher Institute of Industrial Design (ISDI) in Havana?
The ISDI was completely looted after being left unguarded following a partial collapse of its building. Furniture, equipment, and important documents were taken, including degree theses and historical files.
What was the reaction of the Cuban authorities to the looting of the ISDI?
As of the time of publication, the Cuban authorities have not issued official statements regarding the looting or the current conditions of the ISDI building, which has generated outrage and questions on social media.
Why was the ISDI building in Centro Habana left unguarded?
The ISDI building was left unguarded due to a partial collapse that occurred at one of its corners, which was exploited by individuals to loot it.
What measures are being taken for the future of ISDI after the looting?
The ISDI is relocating to a new headquarters in Playa municipality, at the former “Pablo de la Torriente Brau” Polytechnic Institute. This building is being renovated to provide safe and functional conditions for students.
How has looting affected the academic legacy of ISDI?
The looting has had a significant impact on the academic legacy of ISDI, with the loss of theses, research, and historical documents. These materials are important for the academic training and cultural heritage of several generations of Cuban designers.
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