Pro Humanitate Through Art: Jorge and Darlene Pérez on Collecting, Purpose, and Community

On Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 5pm in Farrell Hall’s Broyhill Auditorium, Wake Forest welcomes Jorge (P ’26) and Darlene Pérez as the Acquavella Distinguished Lecturers in Arts Management—Join us for a moderated conversation with Dr. Jay Curley from the Department of Art: Pro Humanitate Through Art: Jorge and Darlene Pérez on Collecting, Purpose, and Community. This is an exceptional opportunity for students and the community to be inspired by their perspectives and experiences as admired figures and philanthropists in the dynamic intersection of art, artists and commerce. Darlene is a member of the Wake Forest Board of Trustees. This event is sponsored by The Department of Art and Wake the Arts.

Jorge and Darlene Pérez have built one of the most significant Latin American and African diaspora art collections in the United States and donated major works to institutions from the Tate to Miami’s Pérez Art Museum. This conversation explores how they’ve turned collecting into an act of service—creating museums, endowing curatorial positions, and using art to build more equitable communities. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear from collectors who demonstrate what Pro Humanitate looks like in practice.

Doors close at 5pm, reception immediately following at 6pm.

All are welcome, RSVP not required.