A Saint for the Arts

In Cuba Alejandro is the patron saint of fine arts who, for over 190 years, has presided over an academy of youngsters aspiring to share in the prestige of one of the oldest institutions in Latin America.

The doors of the familiar San Alejandro Academy have a welcoming width that have an impact on visitors from the very first moment. The entrance to its classrooms has always been free but with severe requirements.

Everywhere are classical Greek and Roman style sculptures, cheek by jowl with murals of contrasting tones and pop art images; while the academy's Cubanness surges with the bust of Jose Marti, the national hero of the nation that developed together with this school.

Since its founding almost 200 years ago, the school has maintained the same artistic goal : to combine foreign movements and techniques with the most Cuban expressions.

The deputy teaching diredor, Hilda Martinez Valdes, tells us: "The entrance tests in February are for the day courses, including natural drawing, creative drawing, painting, clay modeling and art appreciation. Of the 250 students, aged 14 and 15, only the top 30 students who pass the tests qualify to enter the school."