about
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Humberto Lahera González was born in Holguín, Cuba, in 1989. At the age of five, his family recognized his artistic talent, and by the age of nine, he began studying painting professionally at a private academy, developing skills in painting techniques, perspective, and human anatomy. During his childhood, between the ages of 12 and 14, he had already mastered techniques from European Renaissance schools.
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He was selected to join the "El Alba" Academy of Fine Arts in Holguín, Cuba, as one of only eight students chosen in his province among more than 1,000 applicants. Upon admission, he embarked on a new stage of artistic development.
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Due to a lack of resources with quality, Humberto decided to study how to create his own art materials. Using only a book from the Art Academy’s library as his source of information, he hand copied the book due to not having access to a scanner, camera, or the internet.This gave him the skills to create brushes from animal hair, varnishes from tree resin and beeswax, and pigments in the classical style of the old European masters. Without realizing it at the time, adversity would become an advantage in his future work restoring great works of art.
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As a student, he constantly sought challenges, and after exploring hundreds of techniques, he became passionate about hyperrealism for its complexity and detail. While at the academy, he was named the best student for four consecutive years and graduated with Cum Laude honors.
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In 2009, he began working as an art teacher before launching his career as an independent artist, creating impactful works and large murals in Cuba. His work expanded further as he took on the restoration of antiques for major museums in Cuba, applying his knowledge to restore artworks over 200 years old.
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His growth and exploration led him to establish his own interior design and restoration company "Lahera", where as the owner and CEO, he assembled a multidisciplinary team of talented professionals.
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In August 2022, he emigrated to the United States, starting from scratch with great challenges and aspirations. The exposure to a new culture was profound, and it became reflected in his artwork. The city of Louisville and Kentucky culture embraced him, leading his work to evolve into a fusion of both cultures.
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Throughout his artistic career, he has exhibited in Cuba, Canada, and the United States, showcasing his work in both private galleries and prestigious institutions. Notable venues include Kore Gallery, Revelry Gallery, the Speed Art Museum, Louisville Metro Hall, Gilda’s Club, the Governor’s Derby Exhibit, and Humana.
Since settling in the United States, he has made a profound impact on Kentucky’s art scene, earning significant recognition in a short time. His accolades include winning Best Derby Design for the Gallopalooza horses in 2024, being named Hispanic Artist of the Year by Gilda’s Club, and receiving the Art in City Hall recognition.
Very recently, in 2025, Lahera has been selected as the Official Artist for the Kentucky Derby 151 Bottle by Woodford Reserve—an esteemed honor that cements his place in Kentucky’s artistic legacy and Derby tradition. He has also been chosen as the artist for
the Governor’s Derby Poster, which will be revealed later in April.
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