Admin
October 31, 2023
Old San Juan is a treasure trove of artistic experiences, with a vibrant art scene that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the island. From renowned galleries like Galería Botello and Galería Éxodo to cultural institutions like the Museo de las Américas and the Ateneo Puertorriqueño, there is something for every art lover to explore and appreciate. Join us as we dive into the artistic wonders that Old San Juan has to offer and discover the beauty and creativity that flourishes within its streets.
Galeria Botello showcases some of the finest internationally recognized artists. It has a remarkable collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and noteworthy collections of rare antique carved santos. The gallery is famous for the founders, Angel Botello’s, bronze sculptures, oils, lithographs, and linocuts. The works of prominent artists like Alvar, Marcelino Puig, and Juan Ramon Velazquez, are also showcased in the gallery. Galeria Botello is a perfect place to experience the artistic excellence of Puerto Rico!
Some pieces at Galeria Botello are on the website for purchase, pricing info can be found on their socials. They provide worldwide shipping!
Museo de las Américas in Old San Juan is a non-profit institution on a mission to offer a comprehensive view of the history and culture of the American continent, with a special focus on Puerto Rico. Since its founding in 1992, the museum has been dedicated to showcasing the arts, history, and anthropology of the region. It features four permanent exhibitions: “Las Artes Populares en Las Américas,” “La herencia africana,” “El Indígena de América,” and “Conquista y Colonización: nacimiento y evolución de la nación puertorriqueña.” Over the past 25 years, the museum has presented over 525 temporary exhibitions, encompassing a diverse range of artistic, historical, and anthropological themes.
They offer workshops, musical performances, and other activities. With its multidisciplinary, multicultural, and multidimensional approach to learning, the Museo de las Américas has established itself as a leading institution in Puerto Rico, devoted to the conservation and promotion of the island’s culture.
Galería Éxodo, located in Old San Juan, showcases a diverse range of Caribbean and Contemporary Art. The gallery is housed in a historic building known as El Cabildo, which dates back to the 16th century. El Cabildo served as the town council and the first jail in San Juan. In the early 1960s, the property was carefully restored by Don José Alegría. Today, Galería Éxodo offers a curated selection of artwork including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, and etchings. Its exhibitions feature both established and emerging artists and provide visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the diverse art scene of Old San Juan.
The Ateneo Puertorriqueño is a cultural institution that was founded in April 1876 by some of the most distinguished intellectuals and patriots of Puerto Rico, such as Alejandro Tapia y Rivera and Manuel Elzaburu. The Ateneo is dedicated to the development and promotion of the sciences, literature, and fine arts, and over the years, has accumulated a vast collection of cultural and historical artifacts. The Ateneo has several departments with diverse offerings, including theater, music, literature, cinema, history, and arts. The Ateneo also awards the “Honor Prize” to distinguished Puerto Ricans who have excelled in their respective fields.
Walter Otero Contemporary Art (WOCA) in Old San Juan is a dynamic space dedicated to showcasing contemporary art in Puerto Rico. Founded by renowned art dealer Walter Otero, the gallery aims to go beyond the traditional commercial aspects of a gallery and integrate institutional, educational, and archival components.
The gallery’s three floors encompass 5,000 square feet devoted to contemporary art. Its main floor displays major exhibits, while the ground floor serves as a presentation and storage area. The third floor features a magnificent rooftop garden overlooking San Juan Bay, which hosts gatherings and outdoor exhibits.
For information on the upcoming exhibits at WOCA check out their website!
