It is shocking to see the diametric opposition between the elitist Cuban art circuit and the economic, political and social reality that the country is currently experiencing. The toast has become the sacred ritual of every exhibition, which also includes standards of attitude and dress of refined taste and high-class tendencies. Before enjoying the works, it is a priority to have a drink, and to use this moment as a fulcrum for socialising and networking. Cuba libre directly affected this artistic protocol by confronting it with a product completely outside the elitist art circuit, Gualfarina created a cultural clash between sectors.

Gualfarina is an alternative alcoholic beverage that was found by the poorest people in Cuba as a substitute for more expensive rums. It boomed during the Special Period (economic crisis during the 1990s) when the level of purchase as well as the supply market fell sharply. It was also a means of survival for those who, from the illegal market, distilled and marketed it in society.

In order to put the product into operation in front of the artistic public specialised in opening, we used a technique that is well known in our country: the repackaging of one liquid by passing it through another. In this piece we will use empty bottles of the emblematic Havana Club Rum, to which we introduced the alcohol. During the opening of the exhibition, we created a structure for the presentation of our alcohol and hired a full staff from the Cuban rum company.

We intentionally replicated the performance that is normally executed at openings by the spectator. In this case, we modified their alcohol standards, and induced them to become unconsciously part of the work and the clash between circuits. Without knowing it, we induce them to try something that he doesn't know and that keeps a marginal essence, he will subtly realise or not, that he is part of a great show, part of a great spectacle.