Miami’s vibrant art scene owes much to the visionary couple, Carlos and Rosa de la Cruz. Their journey from Cuba to Miami marked the beginning of a remarkable story of art collecting and cultural stewardship that would leave an indelible mark on the city’s artistic landscape.
Carlos and Rosa de la Cruz
Carlos de la Cruz was born in Havana, Cuba, in 1944, and Rosa de la Cruz was born in Matanzas, Cuba, in 1946. Both fled Cuba in the 1960s following Fidel Castro’s rise to power. They found refuge in the United States, eventually settling in Miami, Florida. It was here that their shared passion for art began to take root and flourish.
The couple’s interest in art was cultivated over many years, as they traveled the world, visiting galleries, museums, and artist studios. Their collection began modestly but grew steadily over the years as they acquired works by both established and emerging artists. Their eclectic tastes spanned various mediums and styles, reflecting their appreciation for art’s diversity and capacity for expression.
De la Cruz Collection
In 2009, their vision culminated in the establishment of the de la Cruz Collection, a contemporary art space dedicated to showcasing cutting-edge works by emerging and established artists. Located in Miami’s Design District, the collection quickly became a focal point for the city’s burgeoning art scene, attracting visitors from around the world.
The de la Cruz Collection was more than just an exhibition space; it was a labor of love, a gesture of the couple’s unwavering dedication to supporting the arts and fostering creativity in their community. The collection’s mission was to provide a platform for artists to experiment, innovate, and push the boundaries of contemporary art.
Under Rosa’s leadership, the collection flourished, hosting exhibitions, artist talks, and educational programs that engaged and inspired audiences of all ages. Her passion for art and commitment to supporting emerging talent earned her widespread admiration and respect within the Miami arts community.
Tragically, in February of this year, the art world mourned the loss of Rosa de la Cruz, whose passion and leadership had been instrumental in shaping Miami’s cultural landscape. Her passing left a void in the hearts of many, but her legacy lives on through the collection she helped to build and the countless artists whose careers were nurtured under her guidance.
The De la Cruz Collection Heading for Auction at Christie’s
In a bittersweet turn, it was recently announced that Christie’s has secured the de la Cruz Collection and will proceed with an auction this coming May. While the sale marks the end of an era, it also serves as a monument to the enduring impact of Carlos and Rosa’s vision and their commitment to supporting the arts. The auction will provide collectors and art enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to acquire works from one of the most renowned contemporary art collections in Miami.
As Miami continues to evolve as a global cultural hub, the legacy of Carlos and Rosa de la Cruz will serve as a reminder of the transformative power of art and the importance of fostering creativity and community. Theirs is a story of passion, perseverance, and a profound belief in the power of art to inspire, unite, and enrich our lives.
