Top Colombian artists you need to know
Colombia is well-known for its incredible landscapes, astonishing biodiversity, and the warmth of its people. However, we are also the home country of many important artists in diverse disciplines. Find out more about the top Colombian artists you need to know.
Colombian artists in literature
Colombian culture is full of writers and poets. Perhaps the most famous and beloved one is Gabriel García Márquez. Born in a small village on the Caribbean Coast, he received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1982.
He is regarded as the writer who started the Latin American Literature Boom in the late 60s and the creator of the genre of Magic Realism. He published over 50 works of fiction and non-fiction, in which he captured the core of Colombia and its people.
Other important Colombian artists in this field include Álvaro Mutis, Germán Espinosa, Laura Restrepo, and Germán Castro Caycedo.
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Colombian artists in music
Colombian music offers a vast variety of artists. Due to its cultural richness, the country has prominent figures in diverse genres such as pop, rock, vallenato, salsa, and reggaeton.
Arguably, the most popular artist worldwide is Shakira. An accomplished singer and songwriter in both Spanish and English, she has been an international pop-rock superstar for over 20 years. She is also a skilled performer of Colombian dances, as well as Arab-style dances coming from her Lebanese heritage.
Some other widely popular Colombian acts in the world today include J Balvin, Karol G, and Maluma. These urban performers have collaborated with the likes of Madonna, Selena Gómez, The Weeknd, Nicki Minaj, and Black Eyes Peas. With their success, they are taking Colombian slang and street sounds around the world.
Likewise, other local genres like vallenato and salsa have also catapulted Colombian artists into international fame. Names like Carlos Vives, Joe Arroyo, and Niche have drawn crowds around the world.
Colombian art
In the realm of art, no other Colombian name is as famous as Fernando Botero’s. His trademark style of voluptuous figures and folk themes has earned him a stellar place among Colombian artists. Today, you can admire his paintings and sculptures in museums and public places all over the globe.
Furthermore, the country’s indigenous heritage and tradition have been showcased overseas in the work of painter Carlos Jacanamijoy. A member of the Inga community, he has portrayed the astounding biodiversity of Colombian flowers, plants, and animals.
Omar Rayo is another important Colombian artist, known for his distinctive geometric paintings and engravings. He took inspiration for his style from the pre-Columbian art of local indigenous communities, as well as from the Incas, Aztecs, and Mayans.
Important Colombian artists in other fields
Colombians have risen to stardom in many other disciplines other than literature and music. Actress Sofía Vergara has become a household name in American entertainment. The Emmy Awards recognized her work in the television show ‘Modern Family’ with four nominations between 2010 and 2013 for best outstanding supporting actress in a comedy. She has also appeared in movies alongside Reese Witherspoon, Michelle Rodríguez, and Jessica Alba.
The country has also impacted the global fashion industry. At age 18, Esteban Cortázar was the youngest designer to debut at New York Fashion Week. A decade later, he became the creative director for Parisian fashion house Emanuel Ungaro. Since then, he has released high-end collections through Net-a-Porter, Barneys, and The Webster. Stars like Beyoncé, Rihanna, Paris Hilton, Kim Kardashian, Cate Blanchett, and Rania of Jordan have worn his designs.
Moreover, Cortázar has created an everyday clothing line in collaboration with Colombia’s largest retail company. This has provided work for over a thousand locals, mostly single mothers.
Hernán Zajar is another prominent Colombian designer. He is known for using materials and techniques from his hometown of Mompox. He has dressed Jennifer López and Claudia Schiffer, among others.
Silvia Tcherassi is also well-known among Colombian artists in fashion. She has shown her work in major industry platforms, such as New York, Milan, and Paris fashion weeks.
Discover and admire Colombian artistry
As you can see, there are many exciting Colombian artists for you to learn about. Whether in literature, fashion, or the performing arts, we are sure their talent will bewitch you
Discover your ideal itinerary for free!
At Lulo Colombia Travel, we create amazing travel itineraries that are tailor-made to your travel style and preferences.
Let us help you come up with an ideal route for your trip in Colombia. By answering the following short questions we will provide you on the spot with a free and personalized itinerary that will serve as a starting point for an unforgettable journey!
Discover your ideal itinerary for free!
At Lulo Colombia Travel, we create amazing travel itineraries that are tailor-made to your travel style and preferences.
Let us help you come up with an ideal route for your trip in Colombia. By answering the following short questions we will provide you on the spot with a free and personalized itinerary that will serve as a starting point for an unforgettable journey!