Tola’s Room, located in Baltimore City, is a vibrant hub of Puerto Rican heritage and culture, blending personal narrative, historical exploration, and community engagement. Founded in 2018 as an art therapy project following the passing of Christina Delgado’s father, it now honors Puerto Rican and Nuyorican experiences through exhibitions, workshops, events, and collaborations that foster connection and belonging. Rooted in honoring ancestors and preserving local Puerto Rican histories, Tola’s Room safeguards cultural heritage while inviting future exploration of how the Puerto Rican community can continue to thrive in Baltimore. Through immersive exhibits and intimate gatherings, visitors are empowered to connect with their identities and histories in the comfort of a home-like setting. As Baltimore’s only Puerto Rican home museum, Tola’s Room is both a sanctuary for cultural reconnection and an open invitation to the Boricua community to consider it a second home. It embodies the resilience of the Puerto Rican diaspora, enriching the cultural and artistic landscapes of Baltimore and beyond.
Christina Delgado, a Baltimore-based photographer, designer, and curator, delves into the intricacies of self and identity through her work. As a Nuyorican transplant from New York City to Baltimore, her lens captures the fusion of cultures and the evolution of personal narrative. Delgado’s portfolio reflects a profound reverence for family and homeland, showcasing how these elements can be both sources of pain and avenues to healing and self-affirmation.
At the heart of her creative journey lies Tola’s Room, a sanctuary for Puerto Rican heritage nestled in Northeast Baltimore. Named after her daughter, Omotola, this immersive museum and cultural space stands as a beacon of representation in the city. Delgado’s commitment to arts equity extends beyond her own endeavors; she serves as an advisor, mentor, and teaching artist, fostering creativity and inclusivity in the community. With a seat at the table of numerous advisory groups and boards, Delgado continues to shape the cultural landscape of Baltimore and beyond.