Colombian artist restores historic artwork, unites community
For over five decades, Ruben Dario Cano has preserved centuries-old art across 24 countries.
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Renowned Colombian artist Ruben Dario Cano is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by showcasing his latest restoration project at St. Christopher Church.
For over five decades, Cano has preserved centuries-old art across 24 countries.
His recent project, restoring the church's St. Christopher statue, took over a month to complete.
"I can restore a church from door to end, including paints, sculptures, gold, silver, sculptures in marble, wood, bronze – anything," Cano said.
The restoration has revitalized the community with parishioners gathering to admire the renewed artwork.
"It was something beautiful," said the church's pastor Luis Hernandez. "People would approach him, pray for him and talk about the statue."
Cano's notable New Jersey projects include restoring the 14 Stations of the Cross in Passaic in 1995 and preserving Our Lady of Lourdes and the Lamb of God Church in Paterson.
"I owe my success to God, not anyone else," Cano said.
As the artist looks to the future, he tells News 12 his goal is to honor history and inspire the next generation to embrace culture and preserve the past.
