Renowned painter Luis Germán Cajiga dies at 90

Luis Germán Cajiga, 1934-2025 (peoplepill.com)

By THE STAR STAFF

Renowned painter and visual artist Luis Germán Cajiga has passed away at the age of 90, a loss that was confirmed by the municipality of Quebradillas in a message shared on social media.

“The Municipal Administration of Quebradillas joins the Cajiga family in mourning the loss of the illustrious painter and passionate advocate for Puerto Rican culture, Luis Germán Cajiga. He was not just an exceptionally talented artist but also a devoted painter whose vibrant works profoundly captured the essence of our culture,” stated the note of mourning posted by the municipality. “We celebrate his creative legacy, which will endure in the beauty of each piece that reflects the rich identity of our people: from our lively streets to our cherished traditions.”

Cajiga was born on Aug. 21, 1934, into a modest family in Quebradillas where his mother crafted his shirts from discarded flour sacks, a testament to their humble beginnings. This simplicity framed his early years and ignited a passion for art that would later blossom into an extraordinary career.

Throughout his life, Cajiga emerged as one of Puerto Rico’s most celebrated “costumbrista” painters, creating artworks that were vibrant reflections of Puerto Rican life. His paintings depicted colorful jíbaro scenes, traditional wooden houses, hardworking oxen teams, and the stunning red flamboyán flowers that dot the island’s landscape. In addition to his striking paintings, he skillfully produced posters, silkscreen prints, engravings, poems, and insightful essays, showcasing his multifaceted talent.

At just 17 years old, Cajiga sought the help of Doña Inés María Mendoza, the then-first lady of Puerto Rico and wife of Gov. Luis Muñoz Marín, after learning how she helped artist Alfonso Arana pursue studies abroad. Cajiga wrote her a letter, including two small paintings as a heartfelt appeal for assistance to continue his own artistic journey.

Mendoza recognized his potential and helped him gain admission to the Graphics Workshop of the Community Education Division in San Juan, where he was introduced to the inspiring teachings of mentors Lorenzo Homar and Rafael Tufiño. There, he honed his skills over six transformative years, learning various printing techniques such as silkscreen printing and linocut.

His artistic vision was greatly influenced by the works of French painter Maurice Utrillo, who captured the streets of Paris. Similarly, Cajiga found inspiration in the enchanting streets of Old San Juan, translating their beauty into his own captivating representations.

In the wake of his death, Gov. Jenniffer González Colón extended her sympathies to Cajiga’s family, honoring the profound impact he had on the cultural landscape of Puerto Rico.

“Today, Puerto Rico bids farewell with deep gratitude and respect to Maestro Luis Germán Cajiga, an engraver, painter, and poet whose artistic expressions delicately and powerfully shaped the visual soul of our island,” the governor’s message said. “[...] Cajiga embraced art as a means to celebrate our identity, our vibrant streets, and our rich history, capturing the hearts of entire generations with his unique sensitivity. Trained alongside prominent figures such as Lorenzo Homar and Rafael Tufiño, his work transcended the confines of museums, borders, and time, leaving an indelible mark on the collective memory of our people. Today, we reflect on his legacy with admiration and affection, certain that his artistic contributions will continue to illuminate the path for the sons and daughters of this beautiful land.”