Colombian painter Fernando Botero, considered the South American country’s most famous living artist, died today at the age of 91. The painter of round figures, born in Medellin on April 19, 1932, died in the Principality of Monaco.
Lina Botero, the artist’s daughter, told Caracol Radio that her father “passed away today at 9 a.m. He was in critical condition for five days after falling ill Lung infection”.
Botero was admitted to a clinic in the principality last weekend and discharged yesterday. He was supposed to continue his recovery at home, but his condition rapidly deteriorated until he died today. “He died at the age of 91, he had an extraordinary life and he died at the right time,” his daughter added, emphasizing that Fernando Botero “dedicated his life to his country, the central theme of his work.” The painter died 4 months after the death of his wife, the Greek artist Sophia Vari.
The city of Medellin has declared seven days of national mourning. “In Medellin we cry with pain in our hearts for the death of Maestro Botero. His life, his work, his love for Medellin and Colombia will remain forever. Medellin decrees seven days of mourning and will pay respects to others in Piazza Botero after the painter’s legacy “will last forever,” writes the city’s mayor, Daniel Quintero Calle, in X.
