Retrato de mujer, 1990

Known for his instantly-recognisable, signature style labelled ‘Boterismo’ - a depiction of figures and people in a large, exaggerated fashion and a representation of both humour and socio-political criticism - Fernando Botero was one of the most successful artists of Latin America. His employment of flat, bright colours alongside distinctly outlined forms was heavily influenced by traditional Latin-America folk art, as well as the works of Francisco de Goya and Diego Velazquez; one of Botero’s most celebrated works is Mona Lisa, Age 12 a paraphrasing of Leonardo da Vinci’s original work with a twist that alluded to the aforementioned Goya and Velazquez. Botero captured the various walks of life to be found in his native Colombia throughout his work in sculpture and painting; Card Players and Death of Pablo Escobar are among the most celebrated of his artistic creations.