As a student at the University of Madrid, I had the wonderful opportunity to study the European and Spanish masters that form the permanent collection of The Prado Museum.  This inspired an appreciation for art that has enriched my life.  Later, while living in Central and South America, I loved learning about the renowned, as well as lesser known artists of these countries.

Now, as a Neapolitan, I feel very fortunate to enjoy the many marvelous exhibitions that are usually presented only in much larger cities. An example is the upcoming Botero exhibit that opened yesterday.  I am anxious to see it in its entirety! (The other day I had a peek preview of some of his massive sculptures and took the photos you see above.)

I first became aware of Fernando Botero while living in Costa Rica and Venezuela in the 1980's.  In fact, I was tempted to purchase an original oil I discovered in a gallery, but it was more than my budget would allow.  You can imagine that I regret it today!

Botero's work was influenced by the Mexican muralists of the early 1900's, the modernists Gaguin and Picasso, the Spanish artists Goya and Velazquez, the Italian Renaissance masters, as well as the Baroque style of the Flemish master, Rubens.  Botero, a native of Colombia, has exhibited all over the world, but this is his first major exhibition in the U.S. in almost 30 years. He is the most recognized contemporary Latin American artist of our time.  His colorful and voluptuous figures present a humorous, satirical commentary on society and government officials and reflect native Colombian, as well as global and historical themes.

Don't miss this outstanding opportunity!  The Botero exhibit at the Naples Museum of Art will run through May 3rd.

For museum hours, check:
http://www.thephil.org/museum/museum.html

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Linda Loomis, Realtor
Naples real estate agent
John R. Wood Realtors,  Naples FL