Cuban Actor Luis Alberto García Defends Artistic Value Amidst Criticism & national Crisis
Cuban actor Luis alberto García, known for his roles in films like Clandestine, recently responded to online criticism questioning the value of art and his contributions to Cuba, particularly as the nation grapples with widespread blackouts, epidemic outbreaks, and shortages of essential goods. The exchange unfolded on facebook following García’s commentary on government-sponsored rallies supporting foreign governments while domestic issues remain unresolved.
García had expressed dismay over the prioritization of events demonstrating support for allies like Palestine and Venezuela, suggesting resources would be better directed towards addressing the health and energy crisis within Cuba. He specifically questioned the rationale of holding “parades” while “the country is falling apart.” He also lamented the lack of empathy from authorities regarding the ongoing hardships.
A Facebook user responded by asserting that artists lack the logical reasoning skills of scientists, claiming their “right hemisphere” is developed at the expense of the “left hemisphere” responsible for logic and intelligence. The user further stated García “has not done anything for the country.”
García countered with a lengthy post titled “God save the ‘Queen'”,defending both his career and the broader role of artists in society. He recounted being pressured to pursue a scientific career rather of art while attending the Vladimir Ilich Lenin Vocational School, ultimately choosing to leave as artistic study wasn’t permitted. He then detailed completing his pre-university studies in El Cerro before graduating “with honors” from the Higher Institute of art (ISA) with a university degree.
“as long before I graduated and untill today,it has been an honor to put the talent I received in the distribution at the service of the audiovisual and performing arts of the country where I was born,” García wrote.
He also addressed the assertion of artistic illogicality with pointed irony, stating, “I’m already making an appointment with a neurologist. And then, to the psychiatrist. Is this defect of artists congenital or do peopel like you decide who is saved from suffering from it?”
García concluded his response with a defiant message: “From my sinister hemisphere I send your opinion to the above-mentioned interlinings. you are not the queen of thought. I will continue to give my opinion what I believe because this archipelago is mine.”
Considered one of the most respected actors in Cuban cinema and theater, García has increasingly become a vocal critic of the Cuban government in recent years, using social media to question censorship, the deterioration of public services, and the politicization of culture. His recent posts expressing concern over the ongoing crises have garnered both meaningful support and criticism from pro-government users.
García has repeatedly affirmed his commitment to Cuba, stating, “I didn’t leave, I’m still here,” and emphasizing that his continued presence on the island does not equate to silence or acceptance of the status quo.