Education and Early Influences:

Mario Londoño’s journey into the world of art began in 1978 when he joined the Arts Workshop Group of Medellín. This marked the start of his artistic exploration and development. Under the tutelage of master painter Samuel Vásquez, Mario honed his painting skills, while his understanding of color was deepened through studies with engineer Francisco Sánchez. In 1981, he further enriched his artistic education by participating in a Painting Clinic led by the renowned master Juan Antonio Roda.

European Influence and Puppet Making:

Mario’s artistic development was profoundly influenced by his self-directed travels through European museums, based in Barcelona from 1983 to 1984. This period allowed him to immerse himself in the rich artistic heritage of Europe, broadening his perspective and inspiring his future works.

During this time, Mario also studied puppet making and manipulation with master H.V. Tozer. His skills in this unique art form were showcased in the creation of puppets for the plays “The Ugly Duckling: Andersen’s Misinterpretation” and “The Black Sun,” both written and directed by Samuel Vásquez. From 1985 to 1999, Mario was deeply involved in assisting and setting up stage designs for puppets and theater, further diversifying his artistic repertoire.

Exhibitions and Artistic Recognition:

Mario Londoño’s work has been featured in numerous exhibitions, both group and solo, showcasing his evolution as an artist and his persistent dedication to painting. His early exhibition “Talleres del Taller” at the Chamber of Commerce in Medellín in 1979 marked the beginning of his public artistic presence.

Significant exhibitions include his invitation to the IV Biennial of Medellín in 1981 with the work “Haga Usted Mismo la Historia,” and his solo exhibition “Umbral del Sueño Umbral del Mundo” at the British Council in Medellín in 1999. His work has been displayed internationally, including a group exhibition in New York at the Consulate General of Colombia in 2001.

Design and Illustration:

From 1990 to 1999, Mario contributed as a member of the illustration group for the Sunday Magazine “El Espectador.” His design talents were showcased in posters and illustrations for various cultural events, including the IV Poetry Festival of Medellín and the play “Birlibirlopsiquicia” by Joao Guimarães Rosa.

Mario’s creativity extends to book cover designs for numerous notable works, such as “Poetic Anthology” by Juan Manuel Roca and “Closing the Door: Anthology of Suicidal Poets.” His designs have graced the covers of several significant anthologies, making his artistic influence felt in literary circles.

Theater Contributions:

In the realm of theater, Mario has made significant contributions as a scenography assistant for various acclaimed plays, including “The Architect and the Emperor of Assyria” by Fernando Arrabal and “Severe Surveillance” by Jean Genet. His involvement with the Arts Workshop Group of Medellín brought him to prestigious theater festivals, such as the Ibero-American Theater Festival of Bogotá and the International Theater Festival of Manizales.

Legacy and Ongoing Work:

Mario Londoño continues to create and innovate, blending his extensive knowledge and diverse experiences into his current works. His dedication to art, whether through painting, puppet making, or design, reflects a lifelong commitment to exploring and expressing the human experience through various artistic mediums.