The Venezuelan Ambassador, Samuel Moncada, unveiled a new painting by the South African artist Jason Askew to celebrate the two hundredth anniversary of Venezuela's independence from Spain.  The Ambassador thanked all those who attended and reminded the audience of the historical importance of London in the struggle for Latin American independence: "The three most important Venezuelans of all time met not in Caracas, where they were from, but here in London". 

Ambassador Moncada also spoke of the special significance of the Venezuelan Embassy building on Grafton Way in Warren Street: "We are actually in the building where the independence of Venezuela and Latin America was plotted.  This was Francisco de Miranda's house and a meeting point for Latin American intellectuals.  It was also one of the most important private libraries in London at the time and many people came to read the books and exchange ideas".

Jason Askew's painting depicts a scene in Francisco de Miranda's house where the four most important revolutionaries of the day are gathered together: Francisco de Miranda, Simon Bolivar, Andres Bello y Luis Lopez Mendez.  Askew, who is a renowned military artist, explained that the project was an opportunity for him to learn more about Latin American history and "bring people from the past alive".

The evening concluded with a fantastic variety of performances by Latin American musicians, singers and dancers from countries such as Peru, Colombia, Argentina, Mexico as well as Venezuela.  

Press Unit of the Venezuelan Embassy in London