Columbian artist Fernando Botero was one of the most successful and recognizable artists of the 20th century. His paintings and sculptures are consistently filled with inflated figures and objects. His “balloon” people and animals give us his mysterious take on people going about their lives in a satiated way. 

Botero was known for these satirical, political views for most of his career. And then he learned of Abu Ghraib and in 2005 did a series of 80 art pieces about the atrocities committed there. With these works he plunged us into the darkness of person vs. person.

Upon his death on September 15, the President of Columbia wrote that Botero was “the painter of our traditions and our shortcomings; the painter of our virtues; the painter of our violence and our peace.”

Fernando Botero continues to catch our eye with his signature people and our curiosity with them also. May we recognize his art, puzzle about it, and give thanks for his passion and his skill. May we also give thanks for the remarkable diversity that graces our days, a counter appreciation for the work of this artist!

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church