From Miami to Madrid: Fortress Champions Rafael Soriano’s International Debut

October 22, 2025

When the Rafael Soriano Foundation set out to organize the first international exhibition of works by the acclaimed Cuban artist Rafael Soriano, they faced a momentous challenge: orchestrating the secure transport and handling of 29 irreplaceable paintings from Miami to Madrid’s prestigious Casa de América.

For a foundation undertaking its first international exhibition, the logistical and administrative complexities were significant.

“My concerns were mainly the logistics, such as the transportation and delivery of the paintings, as well as the insurance. The complicated process of an international exhibition was something we had never done before.”

— Hortensia V. Soriano, Foundation Director

The Fortress Solution

Fortress provided comprehensive exhibition logistics, managing every detail of the international transport with the precision and care required for museum-quality works. From documentation to delivery, the Fortress team ensured a flawless experience, supported by deep expertise in international art logistics.

Our services included:

• Detailed condition reporting before and after transport
• Museum-standard packing and protection for international transit
• Coordination of all customs and international documentation
• Seamless partnership with SIT, Madrid for local handling and installation
• Complete round-trip service, including re-packing and return shipment
• Connection with Risk Strategies for specialized fine art insurance coverage
• In-kind donation support, helping make this historic exhibition financially feasible

Leading the project was Kim Jones, VP of Miami Operations, who personally guided the Foundation through each step.

“Fortress provided excellent directions and instructions, and helped us connect with Risk Strategies for insurance.”
— Hortensia V. Soriano, Foundation Director

The Stakes

This was a high-impact project demanding absolute precision:

• The first international showcase for Rafael Soriano’s work
• Complex export and import logistics between the U.S. and Spain
• Two-way transport of irreplaceable artworks
• Meticulous customs coordination and condition reporting
• Insurance coverage tailored to fine art

The Result: A Flawless International Debut

• 29 paintings transported internationally with zero damage
• 8-week exhibition period at Casa de América
• No customs delays in either direction
• Successful return of all works to Miami in perfect condition
• Zero insurance claims filed

Cultural Impact and Continued Partnership

The exhibition marked a major milestone in Soriano’s legacy, introducing his luminous, meditative paintings to new international audiences and earning coverage from ArtNexus and other leading art publications.

The success of this debut has also led to an ongoing collaboration between Fortress and the Rafael Soriano Foundation, supporting future exhibitions and the continued stewardship of Soriano’s work.

“I can unequivocally say that working with Fortress, and specifically with Kim, allowed me tremendous confidence and peace of mind that the collection was in the best hands possible. Besides this international exhibit, all my experiences with Fortress and the many exhibitions that my father’s work has been part of have been very smooth, and the organization and planning have been excellent.”
— Hortensia V. Soriano, Foundation Director

At Fortress, we are honored to have played a role in this historic moment—bringing Rafael Soriano’s light to an international stage while safeguarding his artistic legacy with the highest standards of care.

Learn more about the Rafael Soriano Foundation www.rafaelsorianofoundation.org