Colombian-French artist, Gabriel Sierra Henao, creates captivating artworks that bridge the gap between traditional techniques and contemporary environmental concerns.
Henao has called France home for the past 14 years, after dedicated studies in Fine Arts and Art History. He currently resides between Montreal and Paris, while pursuing a doctorate in artistic creation. A firm believer in the power of traditional techniques, Henao meticulously crafts his works—primarily oil paintings, but also sculpture—all by hand. “There’s something special about creating with your own hands,” he reflects, acknowledging the rise of digital art forms. “Everyone has their preference, but I find immense satisfaction in the tactile experience.”
One of his series, titled “Mientras tanto en la selva” (Meanwhile in the Jungle), delves into a pressing environmental issue: the devastating fires and deforestation plaguing especially Brazil. This particular series holds profound messages materlialized through intricate oil painting. “This series is my way of expressing my reaction to these events,” shares Henao. “I translate the urgency of the situation into visually arresting, even beautiful, imagery.”
Mientras tanto en la selva N°3
This artwork imbued with symbolism, deploys fiery tones and intertwining shapes, inviting reflection on nature and its mysterious rhythms. The choice of oil reinforces liveliness and depth.
| Medium | Oil on Wood |
| Other details | Artwork on wood. Ready to hang. Framing on request. |
| Dimensions | 90x70cm |
Mientras tanto en la selva N°5
These variations of tropical forest landscapes are a poetic and disturbing vision of the disappearance of biodiversity. Like a Memento mori, these images remind us of the consequences of our actions.
| Medium | Oil on Wood |
| Other details | Artwork on wood. Ready to hang. Framing on request. |
| Dimensions | 90x70cm |
While acknowledging the overwhelming media coverage surrounding the forests’ plight, Henao seeks to offer a new perspective. “The constant stream of news reports can become desensitizing,” he observes. “I wanted to present this crisis in a way that compels viewers to engage, to see the devastation unfolding, but in a different way.”
Fronteras Naturales
This piece questions our relationship to concepts of territory. Why is it that when we think of planet Earth, the first image that comes to mind is a map that traces the administrative borders that separate us?
| Medium | Watercolor, Gouache on Paper |
| Other details | Wood; Framed |
| Dimensions | 35x56cm |
Rostros de la tierra 3
This sculpture is part of a series of portraits inspired by the different ethnic groups of Latin America
| Medium | Bronze With Stand |
| Dimensions | Length: 37cm, Height: 48cm, Depth: 16cm |
| Edition | 4 / 8 |
| Artist’s proof | 4 |
The beauty in his work serves a dual purpose: it captivates the eye, but also acts as a stark reminder of a paradise under threat. Henao acknowledges the limitations of his individual creative contribution, yet finds solace in artistic expression. “Perhaps this is just a small act, but it gives me a sense of purpose, a way to participate in the conversation.”
SINGULART is proud to feature Gabriel Sierra’s thought-provoking works. His artistry not only visually enthralls, but also prompts reflection on the crucial environmental issues of our time.
Visit Gabriel Sierra Henao’s Studio with SINGULART
SINGULART invites you to explore Henao’s artistic universe with a video interview in his Paris studio, available HERE.
