Lamp

Written by Kim Nochi

"For scholars and readers today, the oil lamp stands as a symbol of Vigía’s unfailing ability to ignite and sustain creativity..."

Many viewers of Vigía books note the recurring symbol of an oil lamp. This oil lamp is Vigía’s signature emblem and it appears in various contexts on every book published by the press. Estévez explains the origins of the symbol:

Spontaneously, we added the image of a kerosene lamp… a bright light that is a humble light, an intimate and familiar light. The kerosene lamp became a symbol for Vigía because I randomly placed the image on an invitation for a performance by a modern troubadour from Matanzas named Lázaro Horta. After that, it became a symbol for Vigía, not really a logo but a symbol, and it appears in all of our works.

For scholars and readers today, t he oil lamp stands as a symbol of Vigía’s unfailing ability to ignite and sustain creativity even during difficult circumstances. The lamp is more than just an icon; it is a testament to the determination of Vigía. Founded approximately 20 years after the Cuban Revolution of 1959, Vigía has always managed to maintain a successful operation within a country of notable political, economic, and cultural unrest. Additionally, Vigía has been a beacon of acceptance, shelter, and artistic exchange for many authors and artists.