In 1982, Carlos Tortolero left his teaching career to start a museum. The National Museum of Mexican Art opened its doors in Pilsen five years later, and it has stayed in the same building ever since. The museum champions Mexican artists from both Mexico and the U.S.

“We represent a culture without borders,” Tortolero said.

Now, with the museum on solid financial footing, he plans to retire at the end of 2023. In this episode, host Erin Allen talks to Tortolero about his work, legacy and hopes for the future of the organization.