Probably the first thing one thinks about art in Medellin is the famous Botero Plaza in El Centro, where numerous statues by the famed artist Fernando Botero are on display. They are perhaps the most photographed statues in all of Colombia, drawing visitors and tourists daily to see these marvels by the famed artist. Botero is best know for his use of "The Fat Theme" in his characters and people. Across the park from the Plaza is the Museo de Antioquia which holds many of Boteros paintings and other works along with many other famous Colombian Painters and artisans. Botero donated the statues to the "People of Medellin".
The Museum of Modern Art located at Cr. 64 No 51 64 Tel. 230 2622 is another local popular venue for the art enthusiast. Bi annually, they sponsor the International Video Exposition and workshop for children. In addition, the Museum has an extensive library of modern art books, plus a theater seating 220 providing regular showings of cinematographic works of modern art. There are English speaking guides.
The University of Antioquia also has distinctive artworks on display including numerous pre Colombian works of art in gold and other mediums.
There are numerous art galleries, especially in and around the Zona Rosa area of Poblado. You can see works of art being created by local Paisas. You can also see local artists working in Parke Lleras and nearby art studios on Calle 9. You can actually watch them work while enjoying a coffee or lunch near the park.
The Anthropological Museum boasts a large collection of Pre Colombian pieces.
For a large collection of Botero and other Colombian Artists works, visit Art.com
The International Poetry Festival of Medellin (Festival de Poesia) is billed as the worlds largest Poetry Festival. Already 740 poets from 134 countries from all parts of the world have read their poems in some thirty languages before the most massive poetry audience in the world. Usually held in July of each year, it is widely attended by locals and visitors to Medellin