ABOUT CARLOS ARANGO “CLOS”

Carlos Arango, widely recognized by his artistic moniker CLOS, is a trailblazing Mexican artist born in Oaxaca de Juárez in 1970. From an early age, CLOS exhibited an insatiable curiosity for art and creative expression, channeling his emotions into painting and sculpture. The untimely death of his mother when he was just nine years old profoundly shaped his artistic journey, driving him to retreat into his sketchbooks. There, he conjured vivid comics and characters, a testament to his boundless imagination and resilience.

CLOS is celebrated for his innovative approach to figurative expressionism, a style that merges distorted human forms with raw emotional intensity. His works are a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and gestural brushstrokes, often imbued with existential themes that challenge viewers to confront the complexities of life and human nature. Influenced by avant-garde icons like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Jackson Pollock, CLOS has cultivated a rebellious spirit in his art, constantly pushing boundaries and experimenting with unconventional techniques and materials.

What sets CLOS apart is not only his bold use of color but also his fearless exploration of the human condition. His art delves into themes of struggle, oppression, and hope, reflecting both the beauty and turmoil of existence. His pieces are unapologetically bold—brimming with energy, defiance, and a sense of urgency that mirrors his own creative edge.

Throughout his career, CLOS has exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide, earning acclaim for his daring contributions to contemporary art. His work embodies a celebration of life’s contradictions: joy interwoven with sorrow, chaos tempered by order. This duality resonates deeply with audiences, cementing his legacy as a provocateur who refuses to conform.

Today, CLOS invites visitors to immerse themselves in his “magical world of color” in Oaxaca de Juárez. This dynamic space serves as more than just an exhibition venue; it’s a hub for creativity and connection. Through artist residencies, creative retreats, and electrifying live painting performances, CLOS continues to inspire others with his unyielding passion for art and his unorthodox vision.

CLOS is not merely an artist; he is a force—a rebel who transforms personal pain into universal beauty and challenges the status quo with every stroke of his brush. His work stands as an enduring testament to the power of creativity to transcend boundaries and ignite change.

Photo Credit: Michael Amici