Today we’d like to introduce you to Jane Garza.
Hi Jane, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Back when I was attending a private school in downtown San Antonio, Texas, my art teacher took our class on a class trip. She loaded us all onto a city bus and off we went to visit the newly opened San Antonio Museum of Art.
We wandered from room to room, exhibit to exhibit, as she explained painting techniques, different mediums, and styles. But I didn’t wander for long. I found myself standing still in one room, completely mesmerized. I looked at each painting carefully, amazed at how something so smooth and reflective—a mirror of color and light—could be created with nothing but strokes of paint.
That moment stayed with me. It sparked something inside me I didn’t fully understand at the time. From then on, I carried a quiet love for art—a love I rarely shared. My family and friends never knew how much it meant to me. But deep down, I told myself: one day, I’ll have my own art gallery.
Back then, I dreamed of opening one in Puerto Vallarta. Don’t ask me why—I’ve never even been there! But something about that dream always made me smile.
In 2022, I was laid off from my job. Around that time, I met a woman who became my friend. She mentioned she was looking for a space to open her own gallery. Without thinking twice, I said, when you find a place, I’ll rent a room from you. I knew right then that it was a moment couldn’t let slip away.
On October 7, 2023, Cualtzin Arte opened its doors inside Casa Arte de Sol. I call it, the a little hidden gem in the Eastside of San Antonio. What began as a quiet dream in a museum all those years ago has become something real—something alive.
It’s hard work. It’s ever-changing. But it’s also the realization of a young girl from the Westside dream’s. Every time I walk into the gallery, I’m reminded of that student I once was—standing before a painting for the first time, completely in awe of what art can do.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has not been smooth. Curating for a small space comes with its own set of challenges — few artists enjoy working on a smaller scale, and finding the right pieces takes time and care. Financially, it’s been tough; I’ve poured everything I have into this place and often work just to cover the rent. The most unexpected challenge, though, has been bringing people in — patrons, customers, or simply the curious passerby. Those who do visit often tell me how amazing the art is and how beautifully the space is curated. I couldn’t agree more.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Cualtzin Arte is a boutique art gallery located in the historic Dignowity Hill neighborhood of San Antonio, Texas. In addition to showcasing exceptional artwork, the gallery also features a curated selection of apparel and accessories.
Because the space is intimate, many of the pieces on display are smaller in scale — making them perfect as gifts or easy to place in any home or office. Every artwork purchased is beautifully ribboned and ready to go home with its new collector.
Cualtzin Arte has also curated art for a high-end hotel on the River Walk, a charming coffee house and restaurant, and regularly supports local charity events. Most of the artists represented boast impressive accolades, exhibiting both locally and internationally. One of the featured artists has works in several private high-end collections as well as public exhibitions, and is highly sought after for commissioned paintings.
At its heart, Cualtzin Arte prides itself on offering exceptional service and creating meaningful connections. The curator finds true joy in engaging with patrons — sharing stories about the artists, the art, and anything else that inspires conversation.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Knowing that I’m working for myself makes me truly happy. I once told a friend, “I’ll never work this hard for anyone else.” Having a place surrounded by art — a space I can come to whenever I want — is a true blessing. I love sharing what I have with strangers and friends alike.
Some nights I stay open late, toasting to life with friends; other mornings I arrive early, sipping coffee with fellow gallerist as we plan new ways to share what we love.
“Cualtzin” is a Nahuatl word — from an Aztec language still spoken today in Central Mexico — meaning pretty, beautiful, gorgeous, fine, or precious. Hearing these words spoken inside the gallery fills me with joy. It perfectly captures what this space means to me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cualtzinarte/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cualtzin.Arte/
