Luis Hernández Cruz is a pivotal figure in the evolution of abstract art in Puerto Rico and Latin America. Born in San Juan in 1936, he is a painter, sculptor, printmaker, and professor whose work spans over six decades. He completed his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Puerto Rico under the mentorship of Spanish artist Cristóbal Ruíz and earned his Master’s in Fine Arts from American University in Washington, D.C. His career has been defined by his significant contributions to the rise of abstract art in Puerto Rico during the 1960s.

In 1977, Hernández Cruz co-founded the Frente group alongside Paul Camacho, Antonio Navia, and Lope Max Díaz, which aimed to foster and promote abstract art in Puerto Rico. His work during this period moved from geometric abstraction to more organic forms. However, by the 1990s, his art shifted back to a purer geometric abstraction, often recognized for its rhythmic compositions and bold use of color. His mastery of color is one of the hallmarks of his work, whether in his early organic abstractions or later geometric pieces.

Hernández Cruz was also deeply involved in the academic and cultural scenes in Puerto Rico. He taught at the Puerto Rico School of Plastic Arts and the University of Puerto Rico, where he eventually directed the Museum of Anthropology, History, and Art from 1995 to 1999. In recognition of his influence, the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico hosted a retrospective of his work in 2003. He has been honored with numerous awards, including a tribute at the IX San Juan Biennial of Latin American and Caribbean Engraving in 1991.