In a press conference, anthropologist Alicia Castellanos read the call for participation, detailing that the initiative will bring together works by both young artists and established figures, demonstrating that the largest of the Antilles is not alone.

  The document urges people to join the project by submitting technical details and a brief biography for the “Art Auction in Defense of Cuba” catalog, explaining that proceeds will go toward pediatric oncology care.

  It describes the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States on Cuba—in place for over six decades and intensified in recent months—as inhumane, denouncing how it has prevented timely access to medicines and treatments.

  Speaking via an online link, Norman Bardavid, director of the 10/10 Gallery, noted that Washington’s coercive measures—which have resulted in, among other consequences, a blockade on oil supplies—have plunged the island’s population and society into a crisis.

  He specified that the auction will take place on September 26 at 1:00 PM local time at the Benny More Cultural Center, expressing the hope that it “achieves its goals and helps not only to enlighten consciences but also to uplift the spirit, allowing us to say: we are a united humanity living in peace.”

  According to muralist Polo Castellanos, just eight days after the call was first announced, many artists joined the initiative, alongside students from the Autonomous Metropolitan University and other institutions of higher learning.

  He reiterated the call for Mexican artists and foreign residents in the country to join this effort, and encouraged the general public to acquire artworks through this initiative.

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