Art of Fernando Botero

Fernando Botero (b. 1932) is the most prominent living painter of our time, his voluminous figures instantly distinguishable. The Colombian artist studied at the Academia de San Fernando in Madrid before travelling to Paris and Florence to expand upon his understanding of fine art. In 1958, he gained widespread exposure after winning first prize at the Salon de Artistas Colombianos. In the last three decades, he has achieved international recognition for his many paintings, drawings, and sculptures, with more than 50 exhibitions around the world. Botero continues to be an active member of the art community, working primarily in Paris, Monaco, and Pietrasanta, Italy, near the quarry where his sculptures are constructed.