(b. Quito Ecuador, 1919; d. 1999). Guayasamín is most recognized for his paintings and frescos that deal with historical, political subject matters and the plight of the indigenous classes. He was born in Quito Ecuador an Indio-Metzio family. He earned his degree from the University of Fine Arts in Quito. He gained recognition from his first solo exhibition in 1940. Nelson Rockefeller bought some of his work and made it possible for Guayasamín to travel to the United Sates under the auspices of the U.S. State Department. He studied fresco painting in Mexico with Jose Clemente Orozco. His early work is figurative focusing largely on the human figure while his later works took on elements of cubism and expressionism. He has exhibited internationally and his awards include grand prize for Painting, III Spanish Bienale and first prize for painting in South America, IV Sío Paulo Bienale. Today the Guayasamín Museum in Quito is devoted to his own work as well as
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