Víctor sirve un trago (Victor Pours A Drink)

Cuba Series - Painting #4
February 2016
Acrylic on canvas - 36" x 48"

With my cousin Juan Carlo as my guide, we shared a taxi from Santa Clara to the village of Esperanza, to find the cemetery where my grandfather was buried. After searching for hours in the sweltering afternoon sun, I was finally able to match his gravesite to an old photo I had from the 1950’s. It was an extremely rewarding moment for me.
 
After I paid my respects we made our way to the main road to try and hitch a ride back to the city, but my need for a thirst quenching beer was at an all time high. We found a dingy, government run bar near the town square, and that is where I met Victor, the bartender. He looked like a character from an old gangster flick. Despite the gaudy rings and the rough exterior he had a calm and humble disposition. He was happy to meet someone from the U.S. - tourists rarely make their way into this town. I showed him some old photos of my grandfather and we discussed my family's history in the village.
 
After a few beers and the mandatory shot of rum, I bid him and the other bar patrons farewell and I was on my way. I’ll be happy to return for another drink again some day. Hopefully Victor will still be behind the bar.