A Cultural Criminological Analysis of Public Art in Cuba and the U.S.

Session Submission Type: Roundtable Session

Abstract

Through the application of a cultural criminological framework, roundtable presenters will examine and discuss the ways in which contemporary visual representations (and public art, in particular) carry symbolic meaning and are utilized in both the U.S. and Cuba. Having traveled to Cuba, we will explore visual representations of the contemporary transitional period. Through visual analyses, we consider differences in conceptions of public art, graffiti, and propaganda in both countries. Some of the questions that will be addressed are: How do these nations differ in their ideas about art as “resistance,” “crime,” and “propaganda”?; How is public art differentially situated in relation to the “State” in the U.S. and Cuba?; and, In what ways do these representations confirm and/or challenge current marginalizing constructions of Cuba within U.S. political and popular discourse?

Sub Unit

• Area VIII: Roundtables

Chair

• Tammy Castle, James Madison University

Participants

• Nickie Phillips, St. Francis College

• Jeffrey W. Cohen, University of Washington, Tacoma

• Eric Madfis, University of Washington, Tacoma

• Diana Falco, Niagara University