Cuban Art, Instinct, and Connection in Pittsburgh’s Strip District
I recently connected with Rafael Migoyo, founder and owner of Del Caimán. I had the opportunity for a private tour of his new gallery space in Pittsburgh’s Strip District. From the moment I walked in, it was clear that the space itself was designed with intention. Rafael told me that he wanted the space to feel slightly unfinished and raw, in order to allow the artwork to take center stage.
Renovated by Desmone Architects, the studio embraces a deliberately unfinished quality—plywood floors, raw surfaces, and walls that Rafael painted himself with loose, gestural brushstrokes. The effect is subtle but powerful: a textured, unassuming backdrop that allows the artwork to fully command attention.
Rafael, who is originally from Cuba, has created more than a gallery. Del Caimán is a cultural platform—one that introduces collectors to contemporary Cuban artists through experience rather than intimidation. With monthly live events featuring music, conversation, and art, the gallery invites people to connect naturally. In fact, nearly 60% of his clients are first-time art buyers, a testament to his belief that collecting should begin with instinct, not expertise.
As Rafael tours me around the studio, he first enthusiastically shows me his speakers and sound system. He tells me he has a growing collection of vinyl records. The vinyl record library is housed in custom sized built-in – specifically built for records – one that closely follows the rough hewn aesthetic of the space. One unique community aspect of the studio – Rafael tells me proudly that he encourages visitors to contribute a record of their own to the collection. He says this is a way for everyone who visits to leave their mark, to leave something lasting behind to future visitors. He strives to create a vinyl record collection that is reflective of his growing Cuban art enthusiast community. These records are often enjoyed on Friday nights, when Rafael hosts private events in the Art Gallery.
Rafael Migoyo, founder and owner of Del Caimán.
Collecting with Intention
At Del Caimán, selecting art is not about trends or rules—it’s about forming a genuine connection. Whether through their free, bi-monthly Salon Series—intimate introductions to the artists—or their private Art Matchmaking Sessions, Rafael has created multiple entry points for collectors at every stage.
If you’re curious and want a thoughtful introduction to Cuban art, the Salon Series offers a relaxed, welcoming place to begin. If you’re ready for a more personal, guided experience rooted in instinct and clarity, the private matchmaking sessions offer a deeper path.
For anyone who values original, one-of-a-kind work—and believes that the most meaningful spaces are built slowly and intentionally—Del Caimán is well worth a visit.
If you’ve ever felt drawn to art but unsure where to begin, Del Caimán offers an approachable entry point. Their free Salon Series introduces collectors to Cuban artists in an intimate, low-pressure setting—designed to spark curiosity and conversation.
Artwork I personally connected with…
Below are two works that personally resonated with me—each for very different reasons, yet both deeply aligned with Del Caimán’s philosophy.
Rara Ave Nocturna
Eliseo Valdés Erustes
Painting on Canvas | 24.5″ × 18″
Why I connected with this piece
I was immediately drawn to the richness of the color palette and the confidence of the composition. The layered, abstract forms feel sculptural and grounded, yet expressive—dramatic without being overpowering. It’s the kind of piece that quietly holds your attention.
How I would Design A Space Around this Art:
I could easily see this work anchoring a living room as a focal point. Paired with deep, rich brown upholstery and subtle coordinating accent pillows pulled from the artwork’s palette, the space would feel cohesive and intentional. This is a piece that doesn’t just hang on a wall—it sets the tone for the entire room.
This kind of instinctive visualization—imagining how a piece lives within a space—is exactly what Rafael encourages collectors to lean into.
Travesía #24
Orlando Barea
Drawing on Paper | 19.5″ × 15.5″
Why It Stopped Me
The bold green field immediately catches your eye, but it’s the whimsical, almost surreal illustration that pulls you in. There’s a quiet narrative here—playful, imaginative, and slightly mysterious—that invites curiosity rather than explanation.
How I’d Design With It
This piece would make a striking statement in a space with a crisp black-and-white foundation—perhaps a hallway, study, or reading nook. Introducing restrained pops of color elsewhere in the room would allow the artwork to remain the star while adding a sense of liveliness and surprise.
Many of the works at Del Caimán share this quality: visually compelling, emotionally open-ended, and approachable—especially for those collecting art for the first time.
Rafael Migoyo, founder and owner of Del Caimán.
For more information, please check out their website to schedule a private tour or attend an event. https://www.delcaiman.com/
