An elderly Cuban man with a disability astonished a young man by demonstrating his abilities despite his physical challenges. Living in poverty like many of his fellow Cubans, this gentleman possesses impressive drawing skills, exchanging his artwork for a meal offered by the young man. "If you draw me a horse, I'll buy you a pizza," Chris Christian proposed to the elderly man, who readily accepted the challenge. Swiftly, the senior citizen sketched a horse with notable quality right on the street, earning his reward.
What makes this artwork remarkable is not just its quality, but the fact that the "artist" is right-handed and, after suffering paralysis, lost the use of his entire right side, as seen in the viral video shared by Chris on TikTok. Despite his new condition, he continues to find ways to create art.
In a separate video, Chris challenged him to draw six heroes, and the elderly man recreated the faces of José Martí, Máximo Gómez, Antonio Maceo, Fidel Castro, Camilo Cienfuegos, and Che Guevara. In response to criticism from several online users about labeling them all as heroes, Chris explained that the elder paints from the few memories he retains. "The man is struggling more than you can imagine, with his right side paralyzed," Chris emphasized. To assist him, Chris provided both food and money.
Understanding the Challenges and Triumphs of Disabled Artists in Cuba
How does the elderly man manage to draw despite his paralysis?
Despite losing the use of his right side due to paralysis, the elderly man has adapted to his condition and continues to draw using alternative techniques and his remaining abilities.
Why did the young man choose to support the elderly artist?
Chris Christian, the young man, was moved by the elder's talent and determination to overcome his physical limitations, prompting him to offer food and monetary support in exchange for artwork.