
Xavier Cortada, Miami-based Cuban-American artist, created this work of art in 2004. He painted the whole left side of the aircraft with images that represented freedom, community, truth, and hope.
The plane was flown from Cuba to Key West by Cubans seeking freedom from the communist country. The plane, a Russian Antonov-2 Colt, was bought at an auction after the U.S. authorities seized it.
The plane was exhibited for two years in North Miami until it was donated to Florida International University (FIU) on December 22, 2007. The plane will "eventually" be installed at FIU’s Deuxieme Maison building, but until then the plane will face the elements.
For a look at Xavier Cortada's creation before it's donation to FIU please click on the following link: