Statuette "Fat woman with an umbrella"

The artistic world of the renowned Colombian artist, Fernando Botero, is unequivocally recognizable with its dominant motif of voluminous forms. There is nothing subtle about Botero's artwork that revolves primarily around the celebration of curves. The most unforgettable of all his works are his images of nude women, with their exaggeratedly full shapes, ample hips and stout legs.

Botero, born in 1932 in the notorious city of Medellin, Colombia, known for its drug cartel, came from a family of merchants. His journey was not without struggles, having lost his father at a tender age, and experiencing his family's financial downfall. Nevertheless, he emerged victorious adding an unforgettable page to the history of modern art. His rise to global acclaim dates back to 1955 when the 'first thick' elements started appearing in his work.

Botero's unique artistic style finds its way in paintings, sculptures, and graphics. His fondness for the round and plentiful is repeatedly evident as he draws not just people but horses, dogs, and even fruits with generous curves. All his subjects – human and non-human alike, are unquestionably 'plump' in Botero's world. His fascination with the plus size might even prompt one to connect it with his famous quote about men’s true preference for beer and fatties over dry wine and thin women.

Today, Botero is a celebrated global sensation with his body of work residing in the world's most esteemed museums. His sculptures stand majestically in the cityscapes of Paris, Rome, Madrid, New York, Barcelona, and several other global cities, earning him universal admiration and sporadic criticism along the way.