Petrus Gallery, founded by visionary owner and director Sylvia Villafañe in 1997, emerged to fill a niche in Puerto Rico’s contemporary art market. Originally located in Puerto Nuevo, San Juan, its early success led to a move to a custom-designed space strategically positioned between the historic Miramar district and Santurce, the epicenter of avant-garde art in Puerto Rico.
Villafañe has been instrumental in elevating the profiles of Puerto Rican artists, not only showcasing their talent but also establishing their work as valuable investments. Petrus Gallery’s roster features esteemed masters like Antonio Martorell, Luis Hernández Cruz, Jaime Carrero, and Marta Pérez, while fostering alliances with prominent galleries, such as Marlborough Gallery, to bring internationally acclaimed artists like Lilliana Porter, Tom Otterness, and Manolo Valdés to local audiences.
Petrus Gallery’s mission extends beyond exhibition; it seeks to contextualize Puerto Rican art history and content through ambitious curatorial projects. The gallery is committed to supporting cultural initiatives that enhance the local art economy, create educational platforms for youth, and promote Puerto Rico in the international art scene. By partnering with cultural organizations, Petrus contributes to the urban and cultural development of Santurce, fostering an environment that celebrates artistic, aesthetic, and social exchange within the community.