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Who We Are
The Institute of Latino Art (ILA) is a new nonprofit cultural organization based in Pomona, California. Located in the space that formerly housed the Latino Art Museum, ILA continues the commitment to dedicated space for Latino art in the region through exhibitions, public programs, and education.
ILA acknowledges the important work of the Latino Art Museum and the leadership of Graciela Nardi, whose efforts helped establish visibility and access for Latino artists in Pomona. Building on that history, ILA moves forward with its own governance and evolving institutional vision.
ILA Leadership
Johanne Preciado
President, Board of Directors
Johanne is a mental health expert and art therapist focused on creating inclusive, wellness-centered spaces through art and community engagement.
Franciso Valderrama
Treasurer. Board of Directors
Francisco is the owner of Picaresca Barra de Café in Boyle Heights. He brings experience in business operations and financial stewardship, supporting ILA’s commitment to sustainable, community-rooted cultural infrastructure.
Ruben Ortiz-Torres
Secretary, Board of Directors
Ruben is an artist, curator, and educator whose work has shaped contemporary discourse on border culture, identity, and aesthetics across the Americas.
Carissa García
Miembro de la Junta
Carissa is a Los Angeles–based cultural strategist and public art professional whose work centers equity-driven community engagement, multilingual outreach, and collaborative public art initiatives across Southern California and the Central Valley.
Óscar Magallanes
Founder & Executive Director
Oscar is a Chicano artist and cultural strategist working at the intersection of cultural institutions, community engagement, and artist support.