Socialista

This was one of many political propaganda signs around Cuba. This picture was taken from the tour bus on the way to Havana (out of the tourist area). I thought the black silhouette of arms and weapons was particularly shocking. Although it is very abstract, it only takes a second for your mind to assimilate the black shadows as pro-war. The message is bold and proud, but harsh. The use of red, black, and white contributes greatly to the strength of the message and the simplicity of the overall graphic is powerful. The capital red lettering appears hand-drawn, which is likely because of the economic state of the country. Although the revolution took place nearly 50 years ago, it continues to be a prominent topic in Cuba. I imagine the response this sign would get in America if it were on a billboard in Times Square with the word ‘Socialista’ replaced with ‘Long Live America’. It certainly would be controversial at the least. But, in Cuba where their educational system focuses so strongly on the revolution of 1959, this sign is a positive reminder of their feats.