John Sillevis Bücher

Colombian-born Fernando Botero (b. 1932) is a celebrated painter, sculptor, and draftsman, known for his voluptuous figures that blend the opulence of Spanish colonial baroque with the social realism of Mexican muralists. His humorous exaggerations often mask deeper themes, including commentary on colonialism, political instability in Latin America, and regional artistic traditions, alongside European art history. This extensive study of his life and work accompanies Botero’s first American retrospective in over thirty years. Featuring 100 works drawn exclusively from his private collection, including unpublished paintings and drawings, it offers a personal perspective on his oeuvre. Many pieces, such as portraits of friends and family, have remained with the artist since their creation, while others were reacquired as milestones in his career. Three essays delve into Botero's creative journey, exploring the aesthetic environment that shaped his distinctive style and his significant impact on the Colombian art scene of the 1960s and 70s. The exhibition travels to several prestigious venues, showcasing the depth and breadth of Botero's artistic contributions.