Olga Alonso and the Need to Convey Art

Perhaps Olga Alonso (1945-1964) never imagined the creative and humanist work that would inspire her total dedication to the art of teaching in Cuba. Her existence was very short, but the legacy she would leave for all the generations that followed her was fruitful.

In her time, she was also one of the first young women to respond to the call to study art, made by the historic leader of the Revolution, Fidel Castro Ruz (1926-2016).

She offered her efforts and work as a member of the first National School of Art Instructors (ENIA in its Spanish acronym), intending to fight the battle against ignorance throughout Cuba.

In this way, she forged a social commitment as a public servant, whose imprint put a unique stamp on national culture.

Cuba’s rural and intricately woven rural Cuba received her pedagogy and love from her. Not only did she weave dreams with her kindness, but also the roots of a vocation, nourished by altruism.

Her example multiplied when on 20 October 2004 the first art instructors of the José Martí Brigade graduated in Cuba; Olga Alonso’s teaching was also present.

The commitment to continue nurturing the Cultural Policy of the Revolution was more necessary than ever, as a Battle of Ideas had been outlined by the Commander in Chief. «(…) With the arrival of the art instructors, the school was consolidated as the most important cultural institution in the community.

The results of their work will be reflected within the family. The work of these professionals will be projected beyond the school institution and will depend on the link with the rest of the cultural and social institutions of the community (…)». With their presence, said Fidel, «(…) the system of work with children, adolescents, and young people that has been shaped over these years of Batalla de Ideas is enriched.

The links created between the teacher or comprehensive general teacher, the computer teacher, the social worker, and the Art Instructor will be indispensable (…)». To celebrate today, social media with the hashtag #MiBrigadaEstáAquí and messages dedicated to extolling the noble work of its members is trending this year for the celebration.

Also noteworthy is the reopening here in the capital of the Olga Alonso House of Culture; in days where homage is also paid to the 170th anniversary of the birth of José Martí, the centenary of the University Student Federation (FEU in its Spanish acronym), and the 60th anniversary of the Union of Young Communists (UJC in its Spanish acronym).

Aylín Álvarez, who is currently the First Secretary of this organization, said: «(…) The Brigade and all that has been achieved over the years happily accompanies me to this day, albeit with a different responsibility. I will never be able to let go of this art instructor inside me (…).»

Meanwhile, the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba and President of the Republic, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, ratified that the Revolution counts on the Instructors to continue transforming our neighborhoods aside from the art sensitivity. «In no community, school, or House of Culture should there be a lack of this essential and beautiful work.»