Juan Cruz, a talented artist who always had a passion for art, passed away on January 10th at the age of 82. He had been drawing since his family moved to New York City from Puerto Rico when he was just five years old. Even in his later years, he continued to sketch in his beloved sketchbooks. Many of his incredible works will be showcased at a memorial ceremony at La Casita Cultural Center this weekend, and the public is invited to attend and pay their respects.
Cruz’s artistic journey began when he studied art at the Art Students League in New York City and later at Syracuse University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1996. However, it was during his time in prison that he truly honed his craft and found solace in art.
“I had to do something in order not to go crazy,” Cruz once shared in an interview. After getting involved with a gang in his teenage years, he found himself in a tragic incident where he shot into a crowd, mistakenly believing they were members of a rival gang. Sadly, a young woman lost her life as a result. At just 17 years old, Cruz was sentenced to the maximum-security prison at Auburn, facing a life sentence.
Art became his saving grace while in prison. Following the riots at Attica Prison in 1971, James Harithas of the Everson Museum of Art initiated an inmate art program, and a visit to Auburn ignited Cruz’s passion for art. “Art was my escape,” he expressed. “When I started painting abstract, I really got to space out. I didn’t need anything, only what was inside me.” Cruz painted whenever he could, even by candlelight when the lights went out at 10 p.m.
His talent and dedication to his craft did not go unnoticed. Artists and curators recognized his potential and started a letter campaign to have his sentence commuted. In 1975, New York Gov. Malcolm Wilson ordered his release. Upon his release, Cruz immersed himself in his artwork and dedicated a significant amount of time to working with the youth in Syracuse.
From 1979 to 1981, Cruz ran a pilot program funded by Youth Community Service, where he collaborated with young apprentices to create murals on buildings in different parts of the city. He also worked as an interpreter and housing aide at the Spanish Action League and coached the football team at Fowler High School. His artwork gained attention from critics, collectors, and museums, leading to exhibitions at prestigious venues such as the Everson, Syracuse University, and Le Moyne College.
Cruz’s passion for art extended beyond personal expression. He believed in using his talent to make a positive impact on the community. By working with area children on various murals throughout Syracuse, he not only taught them new skills but also brightened up the neighborhoods. His murals depicted scenes of people fixing up houses, interacting with police officers, and children helping with groceries. They showcased the beauty and unity within the community.
In 2011, Cruz became the first artist-in-residence of the new Near West Side Initiative, further solidifying his commitment to uplifting the community through art.
Juan Cruz is survived by his daughter Mia, who resides in New Jersey, a son named Omar Cruz, who lives outside of Washington D.C., and his two granddaughters. A memorial service will be held at La Casita in Syracuse on Saturday, January 20th, at 3 p.m. It is an opportunity for the public to come together and celebrate the life and artistic legacy of Juan Cruz..
