This summer, Oleos & Canvas had the honor of bringing Cuban art to Cincinnati in a monumental way: the unveiling of Esteban A. Leyva’s mural at Freeport Row Art Alley, located at the intersection of Liberty and Elm Streets. Covering more than 1,000 square feet, this striking work now anchors a space that connects residents, neighbors, and visitors through the language of color, form, and community.
A Collaborative Journey
The project came to life thanks to the vision and dedication of Banz Studios, with art consultant Chelsea Tucker Moore leading the charge. Chelsea recognized in Esteban’s radiant compositions something both universal and deeply human: a sense of love, vitality, and community that resonates far beyond geographic borders. Her expertise in managing the technical and logistical dimensions of large-scale art was essential to making the project a reality.
For Oleos & Canvas, our role was to ensure that Esteban’s voice could be heard clearly across borders. We facilitated access to his physical works, negotiated and clarified terms between partners, and accompanied Esteban and his wife during their time in Cincinnati. Acting as cultural liaison and translator, we ensured every stage—from initial introductions to the mural’s completion—unfolded with mutual respect and understanding.
The Artist and His Vision
Esteban A. Leyva’s career spans decades, but his creative spirit remains as vibrant as ever. His work weaves together traditions of Cuban visual culture with a universal language of abstraction. In this mural, he transforms brick walls into living canvases where geometry and color pulse with energy—echoing the dynamism of the city itself.
Building Bridges Through Art
At Oleos & Canvas, our mission is to amplify artists voices in global cultural landscapes. This project represents a powerful step in that direction: creating opportunities for Cuban artists to leave a tangible mark on international cities while sharing stories of resilience, community, and creativity.
The mural is part of the Freeport Row multifamily development by Buckingham Companies, and it has already become a landmark for residents and passersby alike. More than just a public artwork, it stands as a testament to collaboration—between artist and curator, between local and international partners, and between two communities separated by geography yet united by art.
Looking Ahead
At Oleos & Canvas, this project has reinforced our vision of partnering with developers to integrate meaningful public art into new urban spaces. Working alongside firms like Buckingham Companies has shown us how art can transform architectural developments into cultural landmarks. Moving forward, we are committed to collaborating with more developers to bring large-scale Cuban and international artworks into residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects—ensuring that art is not an afterthought, but a cornerstone of community building.