A Menina dressed in Cuba and painted with song titles that marked the career of the singer Gloria Estefan has captured the attention of those strolling through Plaza de Colón in Madrid.
The sculpture, vibrant with colors and Caribbean references, is part of Meninas Madrid Gallery 2025, the urban event that transforms the streets of the Spanish capital into an open-air museum.
Titled "Let's Speak the Same Language: Music," the Cuban Menina is seen by thousands of passersby and tourists, especially catching the attention of Cubans who discover it by chance in the middle of winter.
Gloria explained the intention behind her creation in a video posted on Instagram.
After returning to Miami "ecstatic" from her performance in the Spanish capital in October, she stated that she created this piece especially for the Madrid audience, in gratitude for so many years of support, affection, and for listening to her music.
"That’s why I wanted to design this Menina especially for you, using the titles of my favorite songs that carry a message to all of you, and I hope that every time you see it, you remember me," she expressed.
"I hope that every time you see it, you think of me," he added.
An exhibition that takes over the city
The participation of the Cuban-American artist is part of an initiative that this year brings together 34 sculptures, each 1.80 meters tall, that reinterpret Velázquez's classic.
Located in various iconic spots throughout the city, the artworks can be viewed from November 15 to December 15, after which they will be auctioned for charitable purposes.
In addition to Estefan, personalities such as the duo Los del Río, actress Paula Echevarría, radio journalists, visual artists, and even the virtual assistant Alexa present their own interpretations of the iconic figure from the painting "Las Meninas" by Diego Velázquez, regarded as a gem of the Prado Museum and one of the most admired works in the world.
Each piece features a QR code that allows visitors to learn about the history behind its design through a virtual explanation.
The project, led by the artist Antonio Azzato, receives support from the municipal program "Everything is in Madrid" and the National Association of Textile, Accessories, and Leather Trade (Acotex).
After the exhibition concludes on December 15, the figures will be auctioned to support charitable causes: 80% of the proceeds will be donated to foundations and associations, while the remainder will help fund future editions of the event.
A universal Cuban who pays tribute from afar
With this piece, Gloria Estefan—one of the most influential Latin American artists in global music—leaves a visible mark in the heart of Madrid with a gesture that, although artistic, also feels deeply personal.
Su Menina carries the imprint of the language that has connected her for decades to millions of listeners, and the nod to Cuba makes it an emotional meeting point for compatriots who unexpectedly find a symbol of the island amid Madrid's winter.
The singer turns to art to speak about identity, memory, and music, creating a bridge that connects her native Cuba with the Spain that welcomes her and with the international audience that continues to celebrate her career.
Meanwhile, Madrid becomes the perfect setting for this cultural dialogue that the artist describes with a simple invitation: "Let's speak the same language: music."
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