I help people build meaningful, lasting connections with art, empowering collectors, artists, and institutions to clarify their vision and deepen their impact.
Meet Patricia Cariño Valdez
My mission is to help you build a thoughtful, enduring relationship with art. For over 15 years, I've served as a trusted partner for collectors, artists, and institutions, guiding them through the complexities of the art world with a clear, client-centered approach. My experience across private collections, museums, and galleries gives me a 360-degree perspective of the field, a vantage point that sets me apart.
Interdisciplinary Insight: I connect collectors, artists, and institutions to create projects that are both seamless and impactful.
Established Relationships: My network of artists, galleries, museums, and specialized technical vendors ensures every project runs smoothly from concept to completion.
Transparent Guidance: I provide defined scopes, fees, and timelines so you always feel informed and confident in the process.
Values-Led Practice: I ensure collections and exhibitions reflect culture, community, and long-term stewardship.
My global and inclusive outlook drives a commitment to elevating diverse perspectives. Based in Los Angeles, my practice currently extends from San Francisco to Mexico City.
Key Projects and Accolades
Collections and Curatorial Work
Advise and transact on behalf of private collectors, sourcing aligned acquisitions, negotiating purchases, and managing strategic deaccessions to refine and grow collections
Art Collection Manager for the Olivia Collection and Foundation (Los Angeles and Mexico City), overseeing an extensive collection across homes, storage, foundations, and museum loans.
Exhibition Development and Management for the Olivia Foundation in Mexico City, producing exhibitions highlighting abstract art from the post-war period to the modern day.
Curated exhibitions including Suspended Matter (Berkeley Art Center), Super Sarap (Asia Society Houston), Sonic Futures (San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art)
Artist Advising
Provide strategy, portfolio development, pricing guidance, and exhibition preparation for mid-career and established artists
Studio and project management for mid-career and established artists
Museum and Institutional Roles
Curatorial and public programming positions at the Oakland Museum of California, the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art, and the Exploratorium
Developed exhibitions and programs emphasizing belonging, cultural narratives, and audience engagement
Worked with leading Los Angeles galleries, Various Small Fires and Shulamit Nazarian, gaining invaluable insight into the commercial art market and gallery-artist relationships
Speaking and Thought Leadership
Invited speaker and panelist at Stanford University, UC Berkeley, Sn Francisco State University, the Asian Art Museum, and among others
Recognized for expertise in art collecting, artist advising, and cultural stewardship, with a commitment to championing diverse voices in contemporary art