The Original Painting size is 18x24 Inches. I use the highest quality artist oil paint on studio-wrapped stretched linen canvas. THE ORIGINAL PAINTING ARRIVES AT YOUR HOME FRAMED AND READY TO HANG.

For inquiries and purchases, contact me at christina@christinatarkoff.com, or simply use the "ADD TO CART" button.

The Story of "Music at the Merceria - Old Havana"

My husband and I had the opportunity to spend one day in Old Havana. Old Havana is beautiful, old, unique! Lost in time, with its vintage cars, scant cell phone service and no credit cards! Really! Only cash, no credit cards for tourists or residents! The people we encountered in Havana are beautiful, warm, & friendly. The government pays for all living expenses and everyone gets a monthly salary, regardless of your occupation, everyone gets the same! As a result, there are folks doing all kinds of side gigs to supplement their monthly stipend - from music and art to vintage taxi service to auto repair.

Music at the Merceria - Old Havana." The Big Idea. I love to paint music as a subject and in Old Havana there is music everywhere. The musicians in my painting have a great spot in front of the Merceria. I especially chose these guys cuz they are not only great subjects, but the setting is a Merceria - a tailor shop! My grandfather was a tailor and my mom is a seamstress, so the setting called to me! Please notice the bolts of fabric in the middle window. I love the cerulean blue and golden yellow of the buildings. I created the painting with a triangle composition - can you see it? And, of course there is the main subjects - the musicians. So cool and confident, just as we expect musicians to be. Doing the thing they love best for anyone who takes the time to notice.

Why Should You Care About This Painting. My portrayal of street musicians/buskers is one of artistry, dignity and spirit. It takes courage to get out there and hope folks will appreciate your work. With my paintings of musicians I implore the viewers to take notice!!! Look and listen. It’s nice for our ears to be filled with music as we walk on by. But, next time you pass by a musician - throw something in their collection vessel, nod in appreciation, smile! It’s art! For everyone to see, hear and enjoy! How lucky we are to experience the courage and the art of folks that take their artistry into the public realm.

I believe folks appreciate art in which they can see themselves and their own experiences. I also like to think art & music inspire us see beyond ourselves and our own four walls to enjoy a moment in time, where all our worries disappear.

What Should You Do. Please take notice of the art in everyday life. Go listen to some local music. Go look at some local art. Not just my art, but any kind of art. Get crazy, look at art that is new to you. Look at art that you are familiar with. Use art to understand the crazy world in which we live. Use art to appreciate the most important art of all, the art of being human. Oh, and if you want some art for your home or office, invest in local artists, like me!

I take every step to ensure this online image is as accurate as possible to the original painting. However variations in color may occur due to monitor differences.

WORK IN PROGRESS PHOTOS...