← Return to EDITORIAL

Xolo Cantillo, a multidisciplinary artist from Barranquilla, Colombia, has made a name for himself in New York's vibrant art scene. Known for his bold use of color and themes of identity, his work explores the intersection of culture and humanity. Drawing deeply from his Colombian roots, Xolo’s pieces often pay homage to his homeland, blending vibrant palettes with intricate symbolism. His expressive balance, use of unconventional materials, touch of sarcasm, sensuality, and depiction of the everyday create a decadent exploration of the sublime, inspired by the contrasting and unpredictable themes found in the city.

● Read more: Tango Goes Symphonic: Unraveling the Layers of Strata, Pedro Giraudo’s New Album

Since moving to NYC, he has exhibited in galleries across the city, earning recognition for his eclectic style and his ability to merge traditional techniques with modern narratives. His precise craftsmanship shines in his wooden sculptures, where a silent quest for form and balance is evident, showcasing his dedication to detail and artistic expression.

His new exhibition, Tropic Topic, at the United Nations pays tribute to Colombian culture through an exploration of everyday details, textures, and colors. The collection celebrates diversity and resilience while honoring his roots, engaging a broader audience with universal ideas of unity and cultural identity. Xolo’s art stands as both a personal reflection and an invitation to celebrate the beauty found in daily life and our shared stories.

Photos by Julián De La Chica

Q&A with Xolo Cantillo:

With the occasion of his new exhibition at the United Nations, Gregoria Talks Music met with Xolo in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY, near his studio. They sat down to discuss his journey and the inspiration behind this new exhibition.

1. Is there any artist (in any artform) whose work changed your life? How did it change it?

Joe Arroyo (El Príncipe Negro). His effervescent life lit a spark within me. During my childhood years in Barranquilla, Colombia, I had the privilege of living in the same neighborhood as him. Hearing stories of his life straight from the streets (my firsthand source, of course) fueled my curiosity. It made me yearn to understand that passionate connection to life that only an artist can truly feel.

2. Can you tell us a little bit about your creative process? Do you have any creative rituals or routines?

I live in every moment, in every person who crosses my path. In the silky blonde hair of a woman, in her curves, in her scent. I live in every wound or tear of joy, in my son’s smile, and in the tender kiss of my mother that travels miles to reach me. I live in the chords of Dylan and the poetry of Lorca. I live in the wind hitting my face as I cross the Williamsburg Bridge on my bike. I live in that double scotch and every game of pool. I live in nights steeped in caustic crimson and raw satisfaction. I live in contemporary art books and the magical realism of Gabo.

Every creative process is unique, and mine is living. Oh, and a good cup of Colombian coffee before the magic begins.

3. If you were to picture your life in a painting, what style would it be? Would it be abstract art? If not, what elements would we see?

Mannerist aesthetics. The extravagant artistic subversion of that era always captivates me.

4. Which artists (current or past) would you love to work with?

Painting with El Greco, Chagall, or Klimt.
Writing poetry with Poe, Bukowski, or Gómez Jattin.
Making music with Joe Arroyo, Thelonious Monk, or Chet Baker.

5. Any advice for beginning artists?

Don’t let the flame burn out. The gift isn’t for everyone.

Xolo Cantillo
Courtesy of Xolo's Atelier

What's a song that helped you get over a heartbreak?

A lot of Pink Floyd.

Pick three keywords that describe your art.

Truthful. Eclectic. Colorful.

Do you have any artistic preferences or influences that might surprise others?

I couldn’t name just one.

Tell us one anecdote involving your audience.

Once, while attending an exhibition by a Colombian colleague in NYC, I accidentally spilled red wine on her pants. Weeks later, I received a message from her with a photo of the pants that read: “Intervened by Xolo Cantillo.” Lol.

How has your bicultural experience shaped your artistic process?

Learning is constant, and culturally, it’s a flow of information that never stops. I’d say that’s my daily sustenance. The endless exposure to the cultural meccas of the world keeps my flame alive.

Tropic Topic, by Xolo Cantillo, will be exhibited at the United Nations, NY, from January 2 to January 31, 2025, at the Albano Building, 305 E 46th St, NY.

Connect with Xolo

INSTAGRAM
WEBSITE

Gregoria TALKS music

Gregoria (AKA María Laguna) is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), teacher, writer and psychoanalytic psychotherapist in New York City. She has trained in her native Uruguay and in New York City.  Laguna works as a principal curator, content advisor, and critic for IGM. Additionally, she writes periodically on Latino topics within the New York community. 

As an avid music listener, concert goer and independent researcher, Laguna studies the intersection between music and Psychoanalysis, and wants to raise awareness of the importance of the arts as a mental health tool. She has led highly attended workshops on the healing power of tango, and continues to work on the intersection of music, activism and Psychoanalysis. 

Gregoria is the co-founder of Bicultural Collective, a mental health collective for bicultural individuals.