Revolution of Forms

The Escuelas Nacionales de Arte (National Art Schools) in Cuba, constructed from 1961 to 1965, were the result of an educational programme initiated by Fidel Castro and Che Guevara soon after the revolution of 1959. The architects created an organic complex of brick and terra-cotta Catalan vaulted structures that reflected the optimism and exuberance of the period. However, before construction was completed, the schools fell out of official favour and were subjected to an attack that resulted in their subsequent "disappearance". The buildings fell into disuse and were literally over-grown. In 1998, almost 40 years later, Cuba is beginning to recognize and reclaim these works of architecture. This text investigates the history and politics surrounding the creation of these structures as well as their subsequent abandonment.