RafaelFajardo

Cheverismo is a logical reaction to our neoliberal era. Institutional aid to culture is either too small or too imposing. Instead of protesting or begging, the Cheveristas turn their back on what is of no use to them. They are inventive and incisive. They have a practical sense without sacrificing the pleasures of nonsense. Distanced from their countries’ atrocious dictatorships and civil wars by one or more generations, many scoff at the old culture of complaint and reject any ideology or dogma—calling Marxist, conservative, academic, or theoretical speculations “pretentious” and “boring”.

They refuse to live from the “love and control” of corporations, bureaucracies, or NGOs. The market sets the rules but these young artists and managers are ready to take advantage of it. Their spaces are emerging art galleries, experimental cinemas, venues for lectures, debates, and activities of all sorts, shops that sell accessories designed by artists, restaurants, and bars. This hybrid model attracts a young and diverse crowd, and allows greater autonomy, improvisation, and flexibility than the one financially dependent on boards of trustees or nonprofit organizations.