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Carlos Cortéz

1923–2005

A bearded man with black glasses places his arms at his hips and poses for a photo

Carlos Cortéz was a Chicago-based artist, poet, illustrator, muralist, and activist. Regarded as a political artist, both in practice and belief, he is best known for his prints and illustrations that address labor rights, union organizing, identity and culture. As a longstanding Chicago community activist, Cortéz was integral to the Museum’s founding and mission. The NMMA frequently exhibits his prints, and is the exclusive repository of the Carlos Cortéz Archive.

Works in Our Collection

Art Listing