Excellent Art Galleries in Puerto Rico for the Art Lover
For many centuries art has played a vital role in Puerto Rican culture. An exceptional form of self-expression, artworks can give one great insight into topics of concern in the country over the ages. There are a number of renowned past and contemporary artists using a variety of media in Puerto Rico. As such, art fans will have a great time exploring the various art galleries scattered around the country. Even if you aren't an big art lover, a visit to one or two of Puerto Rico's art galleries or art museums is a must.
The city of Old San Juan in Puerto Rico is a rich treasure trove of artworks. Numerous galleries in the town are filled with meaningful paintings, sculptures and other artistic media. Whilst exploring the Puerto Rican art galleries you will come across fascinating pre-Columbian works as well as newer works produced in our time.
The Galeria Botello was originally the home of the fine artist himself. Here you can view his marvelous paintings and exquisite sculptures. This popular gallery also offers emerging Puerto Rican artists a platform for introducing their art to the public.
Located at: 314 Av. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Hato Rey – Telephone: (787) 723-9987
This well-established gallery specializes in the trading of art, as well as appraisals, framing and restorations. Visitors to the gallery are likely to see the works of talented artists such as Francisco Rodon, Julio Rosado Del Valle, Carloz Irizarry and Rafael Tufiño.
Located in San Juan – Telephone: (787) 755-3542
Siddhia Hutchinson’s Fine Art Design Studio and Gallery:
Visitors to this gallery are stepping into a treasure trove of artworks by this talented Puerto Rican artist. The gallery also features works by renowned Mexican potter Gorky González, as well as some works which are a result of collaboration between these two artists.
Located between the ferry dock and the historic lighthouse on Vieques Island. Telephone: (787) 741-8780
Puerto Rico’s Museum of Contemporary Art:
This museum was set up to encourage the public to explore and experience the joys of art. The museum documents art from Puerto Rico, Latin America and the Caribbean from 1940 through to the present, and as such, is a valuable educational tool and a fascinating place to visit.
Located at: Rafael M. De Labra Historic Building, Ponce de León Avenue, Santurce. Telephone: (787) 977-4030
Biaggi-Faure Fine Art Gallery:
Founded by Gail Biaggi and Carlos Faure, this gallery focuses on exposing Puerto Rican art to the rest of the world. The works of renowned masters mingle with those of aspiring young artists in this charming gallery.
Located at: 1035 Jesus T. Pinero Avenue, Puerto Nuevo – Telephone: (787) 277-2783
Alicia Sotomayor’s Art Gallery:
With artworks displayed in galleries as far away as South Africa and throughout the United States, and articles in magazines highlighting her accomplishments, this innovative artist is loaded with talent. By appointment Alicia will show visitors around her private art gallery in Aguadilla.
Guillermo Lopez Bauco is not only a talented artist in his own right, but he is also known for his almost magical ability to restore old, neglected and damaged canvases to their former glory.
Located at: 305 Calle Rafael Lamar, Hato Rey – Telephone: (787) 282-8302
The Butterfly Art Gallery is completely unique with its intriguing designs made using real butterflies (which died of natural causes. This gallery is a kaleidoscope of dazzling colors that capture the imagination.
Located at: 257 Calle De La Cruz, Old San Juan – Telephone: (787) 723-2432
OBRA Galería Alegria:
Three time winner of the Collective Exhibition category award of the Critics of the Puerto Rican Association of Art (AICA), this gallery is devoted to exhibiting paintings and sculptures of great Puerto Rican artists, as well as international art.
Located at: 301 Calle Tetuán, Old San Juan - Telephone: (787) 723-3206
Galería Raíces:
With the focus on emerging Puerto Rican artists, this gallery offers a fascinating perspective on contemporary and multimedia art.
Located at: 314 Av. José de Diego, Santurce, San Juan – Telephone: (787) 723-8909
Galería Arrecife:
Choosing to show works exclusively by artists living in the Caribbean, this gallery features exquisite ceramics by Rafael de Olmo and unusual jewelry made from fish scales.
Located at: 1000 Av. El Conquistador, Fajardo – Telephone: (787)863-3972
Each of these fine art galleries will take you on a special journey. For a deeper look into the history of art, visit one or more of Puerto Rico's art museums. The Museo de Arte de Ponce has a remarkable collection where each piece is carefully displayed in the honeycomb-shaped rooms. Artworks exhibited here include those from Puerto Rico and from other countries. Look out for masterpieces by Francisco Oller, Rossetti, Jan van Eyck, Murillo, Diego Rivera and José Campeche. Also worth a visit are the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Popular art. So, whether you are a major art enthusiast or just mildly interested, be sure to include a visit to one of Puerto Rico's art galleries on your itinerary.
