Aníbal Vallejo's journey into the world of artistic expression began amidst the vibrant cultural tapestry of Medellín, Colombia, where creativity flowed through the veins of his family. Coming from a lineage of artists, musicians, and writers, he was immersed in a world where imagination knew no bounds and artistic exploration was celebrated.
Drawing upon his rich heritage, Vallejo embarked on a path of artistic discovery, formally studying both fashion design and fine arts at esteemed institutions such as the Colombian College of Design and the University of Antioquia. These formative years laid the groundwork for a career marked by innovation and introspection.
Vallejo's solo exhibitions serve as portals into the depths of the human psyche, exploring themes of identity, memory, and perception. From "Narciso y lo que no vemos en el espejo" to "Apuntes para el salón de Madame B. o la búsqueda del Gesamtkunstwerk," each showcase invites viewers to journey beyond the surface and into the domains of the unseen.
Moving beyond traditional techniques, Vallejo seeks to integrate new media into his process, reflecting on the essence of painting itself. Through ongoing exploration, both conceptually and formally, he delves into diverse materials and investigates alternative resources, such as the incorporation of embroidery and textiles. This innovative approach adds depth and dimension to his work, challenging conventional notions of artistic expression.
While Vallejo's work has garnered international acclaim through participation in group shows and art fairs worldwide, including Paris, New York, Miami, Copenhague, Milan, Istanbul, Singapur, Bogotá and Lima, his roots remain firmly planted in his Colombian heritage. His pieces grace collections such as the permanent Art Collection of Banco de la República Museum Of Art Miguel Urrutia (MAMU) in Bogotá, Museum of Modern Art of Medellín (MAMM), Museum Of Antioquia and the Related Group in Miami, testament to the universal appeal of his vision.
In every brushstroke and installation, Aníbal Vallejo's voice resonates—a beacon of light guiding us through the labyrinth of our own consciousness. His art challenges us to see the world with fresh eyes, to embrace the beauty of the unseen, and to celebrate the transformative power of creativity. Through a harmonious blend of intuition and contemplation, Vallejo's works navigate the tension between surface and application, yielding shapes and tones that resonate across pieces, establishing an internal dialogue. Each painting emerges as a manifestation of ongoing thoughts and ideas, forming an interconnected series that invites viewers to become active participants in the visual discourse.