Philadelphia, PA – The grand opening of Galería Esperanza, which took place on Friday, December 8, 2023, continued the mission of the Esperanza Art Center. The inaugural exhibition featured the exclusive work of the prominent Puerto Rican painter and teacher, Tato González, titled «Dream of Kings.» Each piece left spectators in awe as the artist uniquely portrayed the Three Wise Men, evoking memories of childhood and the celebrations of the arrival of the Three Wise Men in Puerto Rico.
(Photo: Manuel Flores/Dream Art Studio)
The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured remarks from Tato González, Rev. Bonnie Camarda, Vice-chair of Esperanza’s Board of Directors, Rev Luis Cortés, Jr., Founder & CEO of Esperanza, and Rev. Ruben Ortiz, Executive Director of Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia, and Vicinity.
“The success of this work is attributed to the hard teamwork with José Rivera, Manuel Bravo, Alberto Becerra, and the entire Esperanza team that led the project’s development. Especially Rev Luis Cortes, thank you for letting me be part of this impactful project.” Tato Gonzalez said. Tato’s daughters also played a crucial role in the creative process. Damalich and Kathian Gonzalez Rosa expressed their happiness at seeing the culmination of this exhibition as a contribution from their family to the community. Rev Luis Cortés, Jr., Founder & CEO of Esperanza, emphasized the importance of having an accessible gallery in the neighborhood that will enrich the artistic community overall. Renowned poet, writer, and declaimer David Santiago praised Maestro Tato González’s approach to teaching children and youth about art.
Chef Mariangely Rosa from Entre Sabores Puertorican Cuisine made a typical Puerto Rican menu. Other delights enjoyed included tequeños, pastries from Tequegochos, and desserts such as cupcakes and Peruvian alfajores from Pastelito Azul. The combination of flavors delighted the attending audience. Guests enjoyed music from Natalia Sosa, a student of AMLA. To top it off, the Three Wise Men appeared to the rhythm of Los Bomberos de la Calle’s parranda.
From children to adults, everyone enjoyed and appreciated the new opportunity to exhibit their works that did not exist before.
Join the conversation about «Sueño de Reyes» on social media using the hashtag #SuenosdeReyes
For more information, please visit https://www.esperanzaartscenter.us/sueno-de-reyes-dream-of-the-kings
Lili Daliessio is the Community Information Manager at Esperanza Housing and Economic Development.
