Cultural Connections

Cultural Connections:

Cultural Connections explores the many connections we have as people of color. Unconsciously my art explores these connections through designs, symbols, and subject. I believe God has blessed me by allowing CULTURE to flow through my hands and create on different surfaces.

Jose Manuel Cruz is a Puerto Rican/Colombian Latino Artist. He has a unique style and loves working with bold, bright colors and all mediums. Mr. Cruz graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BA in Fine Arts from New Jersey City University. In 1986, he started substitute teaching in the Newark Public School system, which inspired him to pursue a career as an Art Educator. In 1998 he became a certified Art Teacher. For over 40 years he has exhibited his works in the United States and abroad. His most recent works can be seen here at the Triangle Cultural Art Gallery. Mr. Cruz is also proud to have his piece titled “Racial Profiling” acquired by the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum in Washington D.C. in 2016. Mr. Cruz’s influences as an artist are attributed to his Family, Professor Bernard, Eleta Caldwell, Russel Murray, Mr. K, Professor Ben Jones, Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquait, Miro, Gustav Klimt and countless Graffiti Artists.