Brooklyn-born artist Danny Cortes found his life’s purpose in the streets and culture of New York City. Cortes never expected to build an international art career based on the beautifully imperfect world he grew up in, but amazingly, the bodegas, graffiti, and everyday objects of his childhood took form in miniature art that is distinctly his.
He began his incredible journey into the world of art at thirty-nine during a very dark time in his life. Divorce, legal battles, the pandemic, and losing practically everything plunged him into a deep depression and anxiety. Searching for meaning in the backrooms of his pandemic job, he discovered a passion that brought him back to life. He describes the experience by stating, “Life got in the way, but it was meant to; God’s timing was perfect.” Recreating the textures and moments of 80s and 90s New York into unique artistry became a way to process and preserve his past.
Naturally, his very first miniature, the “Icebox,” came straight out of his memories of walking through the streets of New York. As a young kid, Cortes saw them everywhere, passing through bodegas in the heart of Brooklyn. He often depicts the scarcity of a fresh icebox and the inevitability of it being covered by graffiti within a week of installation. But Cortes sees value in this; the graffitied icebox captures the character and the essence of the community. This very community, despite the difficulties that arise in the streets of Brooklyn, binds every New Yorker to their home.
“My roots keep me honest,” he explains. “The rust, cracks, and textures are all real memories.” Today, his art appears not only in New York but also in Japan, Paris, Belgium, and beyond, carrying the deep nostalgia of New York for some and the enticement of miniatures for everyone else.
Cortes’ work with the Cristian Rivera Foundation began when his friend Johnny Marines invited him to a New York City restaurant Raos to present a miniature he had made. CRF Founder John “Gungie” Rivera happened to be there; after hearing Rivera talk about the Foundation’s mission, Cortes immediately felt connected. He remembers the evening, saying, “It was so heartfelt, they weren’t just talking; they were doing.” With one year as a board member completed and many more to come, Cortes shared that he most enjoyed presenting the Warrior Award to Nicole Puglisi at the CRF annual 5K in 2025 as well as witnessing the strength of the amazing D.I.P.G. warriors.
For Cortes, CRF stands out for the incredible effort of its board members, who consistently turn genuine empathy into action. He, as a board member, also contributes deeply to the CRF cause. Seeing his miniatures auctioned at the gala has been especially meaningful. “It’s an honor that my art can help,” he affirms, “It gives my work even more purpose.” After getting another chance at life, he feels a responsibility to support families and propel research.
Looking ahead, Cortes hopes to raise awareness of CRF’s mission, largely through his own voice and platform. He intends to reach everyone who has not had the opportunity of being educated on the subject. Furthermore, he dreams of an impactful film about Cristian and D.I.P.G that can aid in sharing the message globally. To families currently facing a diagnosis, he shares, “You are not alone. Your strength matters. We’re fighting with you.” He also conveys to anyone dealing with hardships the wisdom that got him through his toughest times: “Never give up. Hold on one more day. It’s never too late. Work from the heart, and with whatever you have.”