At 23 Hotel, we believe that design and aesthetics are fundamental pillars of the guest experience. But beyond the decor, we conceive our spaces as aliving gallery, a dynamic canvas where thelocal artnot only beautifies, but also dialogues, inspires and connects. For theArt lovers, collectors, and travelers inspired by local cultureWe invite you to discover the stories and creative minds behind the exhibition pieces that make 23 Hotel a unique cultural destination in Medellín.

Join us on a journey through the region’s artistic richness, carefully integrated into every corner, transforming your stay into a deeply meaningful aesthetic and emotional experience.

1. Original Pieces by Leonardo Montoya: Fantasy, Culture and Contemporary Criticism

We are proud to exhibitoriginal pieces by Leonardo Montoya, a local artist with an active residency in the heart of Medellín. Montoya is widely recognized for his ability to fuseFantasy, Colombia’s rich culture, and a critical perspective on gender equalityin his works (instagram.com, es.wikipedia.org, hotelelzarzo.com).

His canvases, vibrant in color and rich in symbolism, provide acontemporary and reflective dimensionto our spaces. Montoya manages to generate a visual conversation, inviting introspection without imposing himself, allowing each viewer to interpret and connect with his powerful messages of freedom, diversity, and empowerment. His strategically placed works become points of silent dialogue throughout the hotel.

2. Installations by María Teresa Cano: Visual Dialogues that Expand the Senses

The pieces ofMaría Teresa Canoare a captivating presence at 23 Hotel. Renowned for her exploration of profound themes, her sculptures and paintings delve into therole of women in societyand thecomplex interaction in public and domestic spaces (tripadvisor.es, instagram.com, 23hotel.co).

At 23 Hotel, Cano’s works are not just decorative elements; they provide avisual dialogue that expands the sensesand the hotel’s context as a space for reflection. Its installations invite a pause, a look beyond the obvious, transforming unexpected corners into points of artistic meditation. The strength of its forms and the delicacy of its messages transform the environment, inviting contemplation on the human condition and art as a mirror of life.

3. Tribute to Jaime Arango Correa: Texture as Pure Expression

We give a sensetribute to Jaime Arango Correa, a local art master recognized for his distinctivematerial expressionism. His technique, characterized by themixture of sand, oils and pigments to create dense textures and organic shapes, has been a direct inspiration in the design of our spaces (hotelelzarzo.com, es.wikipedia.org, instagram.com).

At 23 Hotel, this influence manifests itself in a variety of ways. You’ll findpaintings and murals located in corridors and common areasthat directly evoke Arango Correa’s technique. The rough surfaces, layers of color that reveal depth, and shapes that seem to emerge from the earth itself are a tribute to his legacy. These pieces are not only visually striking but also invite tactile input, allowing for a more visceral connection with the art and materialist expression he so mastered.

4. Murals and Pieces by Local Emerging Artists: Giving Voice to New Creators

At 23 Hotel, our commitment to local art goes beyond established names. We firmly believe in the power ofemerging creationand the importance of providing a platform for the talents of the future. Therefore, we actively collaborate withemerging artists from Medellín.

We carry outperiodic callsto selectunique pieces, ranging from vibrant paintings and innovative sculptures to photographs that capture the essence of the city. These works are renewed each season, ensuring that our spaces are always fresh and dynamic. This initiative not only enriches the guest’s aesthetic experience, but also fulfills a vital social mission bygive voice and visibility to new creators, thus fostering a sustainable and vibrant artistic ecosystem in the city.

5. Collective and Rotating Art: Common Areas as Dynamic Mini-Galleries

The common areas of 23 Hotel are conceived asmini-art galleries in constant motionThe lobby, the hallways leading to your room, and, most notably, our iconic Rooftop Del Sol, serve as active exhibition spaces.

In these places, we exhibittemporary pieces by various local artists. This constant rotation of worksnot only keeps the hotel visually stimulating for our returning guests, but also creates adynamic and sustainable artistic ecosystemVisitors can discover new expressions, support diverse creators, and be part of an evolving artistic conversation. It’s an invitation to surprise and discovery with every visit.

Why the Deep Connection to Local Art at 23 Hotel?

Our decision to integrate local art so centrally into our design reflects a profound philosophy that enriches every guest’s experience:

• Authentic Cultural Connection:Each carefully selected work of art is a genuine reflection of thecontemporary paisa identityIt allows guests to immerse themselves in the local culture in a visceral and meaningful way, going beyond conventional tourist attractions.
  
  
• Support for Regional Talent:We are committed to theboost and visibility of regional artists, from established creators to emerging collectives and talents. We believe in the importance of nurturing Medellín’s artistic ecosystem and providing a platform for local talent to thrive.
  
  
• Emotional and Sensory Design:Art is not just a decoration; it is a powerful catalyst for emotions. By integrating art into the design of our spaces,We enhance the guest’s sensory experience, provoking wonder, reflection, calm, and inspiration. The works of art become part of the emotional narrative of your room.

Tips for Visitors: How to Add to Your Art Experience at 23 Hotel

To make your immersion in the art of 23 Hotel as complete and enriching as possible, we offer some recommendations:

• Request a Short Art Tour:When checking in, don’t hesitate toAsk our friendly staff for a short art tourThey’ll be happy to walk you through the highlights and share some of the stories and concepts behind them.
  
  
• Interact with the Pieces:We invite you to go beyond mere observation. Several of our pieces are designed to betactileor include componentsauditoryAllow yourself to explore these sensory dimensions and discover new layers of meaning.
  
  
• Participate in Exhibition Openings:If your visit coincides with one of ouropenings of exhibitions by local artistsDon’t hesitate to participate! It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet the artists themselves, understand their creative processes, and be part of Medellín’s vibrant cultural scene.

At 23 Hotel, art is not simply decoration: it is aLiving bridge between the rich Paisa culture, architectural innovation and the exuberance of tropical natureHere, each piece—from the established works of Leonardo Montoya and María Teresa Cano to the vibrant creations of emerging artists—celebrates the essence of Medellín. Immersing yourself in this curatorship transforms your stay into an aesthetic and emotional experience with a profound sense of place that will stay with you long after you leave.