UNISONActive is an unofficial blog produced by UNISON activists for UNISON activists. Bringing news, briefings and events from a progressive left perspective.

Thursday 9 February 2012

Exhibition of contemporary Cuban art in support of Miami Five

A ground-breaking exhibition in support of the Miami Five is coming up in London and Glasgow. The London event is at Gallery 27 Cork Street, London from 23 to 28 April, 2012 followed by The Lighthouse in Glasgow from 7 to 13 May.

Beyond the Frame is a ground-breaking exhibition aimed at raising awareness around the case of the Miami Five organised by the Cuba Solidarity Campaign.

The exhibition features special works by Antonio Guerrero and Gerardo Hernández, two of the Miami Five. Antonio has contributed a selection of drawings and paintings whilst Gerardo has contributed a series of cartoons.

All of their artwork has been completed whilst behind bars and will be showcased alongside some of the finest contemporary Cuban art – shown in the UK for the first time – and artwork by celebrated UK-based artists such as John Keane, Derek Boshier, Susan Hiller and Mona Hatoum, all of whom have donated their work for free.

“Behind every work there is always an emotion, but I can tell you that in mine there is, above all, freedom in the roughest confinement” – Antonio Guerrero, Miami Five prisoner

Miami Five
The Miami Five were falsely accused of committing espionage against the United States. They have been imprisoned for over 13 years and their families have been denied full visitation rights. Their trial and incarceration has been condemned by the United Nations, Amnesty International and various human rights groups.

The British trade union movement has played an integral role in the fight to bring justice to the Miami Five and Beyond the Frame will help bring this ongoing injustice to a new audience. Family members of the Five will travel to the UK to raise the profile of the case and attend the exhibition.

Sale of artworks
All contributing artists are donating their artwork to raise funds to support the ongoing campaign for justice for the Miami Five. The exhibited artworks will be available for purchase at Gallery 27 Cork Street, London and subsequently at The Lighthouse, Glasgow. Entry is free. Full details can be found at http://www.cuba-solidarity.org.uk/  and http://www.cubabeyondtheframe.com/

Touring exhibition
A touring exhibition featuring the work of Antonio and Gerardo and information about the Miami Five and the campaign for their release will be available following the main shows to tour around regions and union conferences and events. Please contact CSC for further details.

How you can help
You can help support the exhibition and campaign for Freedom for the Miami Five by making a donation, buying artwork, publicising the event, or hosting the touring exhibition in your region. Please contact CSC on office@cuba-solidarity.org.uk or 020 800 0155 for more information.

Press information
For press enquiries about the Miami Five please contact Natasha Hickman on 020 800 0155, mobile 07813 689777 or email communications@cuba-solidarity.org.uk

Photograph of Antonio Guerrero, Miami Five prisoner with his portrait of Buena Vista Social Club singer Omara Portuondo