An inside look at La Casa de Amistad's Galería Dolores Garcia y Gilberto Cardenas

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind.-- Ever since La Casa de Amistad moved into its current space three years ago, they've always envisioned big things for the community.

With Sunday's opening of the art gallery, La Casa says it adds the perfect opportunity to blend culture, history and pride.

The Galería is named after Dolores Garcia and Gilberto Cardenas, a couple that has been in the South Bend community for some time.

Gilberto was the very first executive director for the Institute for Latino Studies over at the University of Notre Dame. Over time, he and his wife became art collectors, eventually becoming one of the largest collectors in the country.

For over a decade, they have donated several pieces of art each year to La Casa de Amistad. These donations are featured in La Casa’s annual gala auctions, raising funds to support youth programs at the center.

The gallery showcases over 42 pieces of art, valuing $35,000.

A key part of La Casa’s plan was the creation of an art gallery, a space where artists from around the world could showcase their work while giving local children the opportunity to see their own art displayed alongside these prestigious pieces.

"The Gallery here at La Casa de Amistad is a moment. It allows us to tell the story of the community, it allows us to give access to the kids and families to our program. Whether it be the children who are tutored or the parents who are in the citizenship [process]. Because perhaps those families won't go to a museum, but here in La Casa de Amistad they will have access to a professional gallery where we can see our stories and perhaps the story of the immigrant," La Casa de Amistad CEO Juan Constantino said.

To see the gallery for yourself or explore and purchase art, viewings are available by appointment.

You can contact La Casa by phone or email.