Who was the painter of some of the largest murals in the Latino community?

Raíces Culturales Latinoamericanas, in partnership with Taller Puertorriqueño, is reviving its popular Tertulia–a fun gathering to explore our community’s traditions and roots–with a quarterly series in 2023 titled “Honoring Our Past, Envisioning Our Future”.  We will honor both our community members, who have left their legacy–a foundation–and those who continue to build on that legacy to ensure the Latino community in Philadelphia prospers and serves future generations.  

Our next tertulia in this series is “José Alí Paz and His Art” on Wednesday, June 14 from 6 to 9 pm at the Taller Puertorriqueño at 2600 N. 5th Street in Philadelphia.  José, a native of Venezuela, arrived in Philadelphia in 2000 with his family and created many memorable works of art, such as murals including one at the Taller Puertorriqueño’s former facilities, as well as the Raíces logo and colorful backdrops for Raíces performances, displaying a unique talent for communicating the Latino cultural experience as a visual artist.  Despite developing brain cancer, he was determined to continue creating his art before finally succumbing to the disease in 2008. We will hear from his family and collaborators, such as fellow muralists and members of the organization Casa de Venezuela, who were privileged to work alongside him and touched by his generosity of spirit.  An open mic session invites the insights and participation of individuals, including visual artists who have continued his legacy in the community.

There will be antojitos to snack on, a time for networking, and music to keep us in a festive mood!

Free In-Person Event