Jesus Mejia

First prize winner of The Francisco Amighetti National Visual Arts Awards, 2023. Jesus Mejia’s work revolves around creating analogies of social violence, often incorporating Catholic imagery. His artistic approach, which he refers to as a contemporary neo-academicism, involves intense narratives through figurative language. Inspired by Baroque and tenebrism, Mejia employs powerful light and dark contrasts to highlight the stark social disparities that exist in contemporary society. Rather than attempting to moralise his figures, Mejia transforms these contrasts into dramatic symbols, exposing societal issues through symbolic representation.

Growing up in a Catholic household, Mejia is inspired by Latin American social contexts, addressing issues of aging and political self-esteem in his art. His paintings are a medium to convey his social and political viewpoints, engaging viewers in critical reflection. Mejia’s work explores the intricacies of everyday life, studying scenes unfolding around him, whether on a bus or during family activities. He meticulously documents these moments through photographs and notes, using them as references to inform his paintings.

Mejia has exhibited widely across Costa Rica as well as internationally. His painting “Levántate y Anda” received the third place prize at the 2024 CROMA Biennial held at the Costa Rica Country Club where, in June 2025, he will present a solo exhibition of new series, Dreamland. In addition to his painting, Mejia is a conservation and restoration apprentice, which emphasises his commitment to the preservation and understanding of artistic heritage. Emerging as a prominent figure in the Costa Rican art scene, Mejia invites viewers to confront and contemplate the complexities of contemporary existence.

Why We Love This Artist

Jesus is one of the most exciting young painters working in Costa Rica right now — a Francisco Amighetti National Award winner whose command of light, shadow and the human figure is remarkable for an artist at this stage of his career. His work is hard-hitting and socially engaged, painted with real conviction. We have no doubt we are watching a significant career take shape.