Marcelo Eli Sarmiento

Marcelo Eli Sarmiento (b. 1989, Chicago) is an American artist whose work bridges the contemporary and ancestral, drawing deeply from his Mexican and Ecuadorian heritage. With a focus on pre-Columbian cosmology, symbolism, and mythology, Marcelo reimagines these traditions through a contemporary lens, creating works that explore the intersections of culture, identity, and collective memory. His practice seeks to build a dialogue between the past and present, inviting viewers to reflect on the complexities of human experience and shared histories.

Currently based in Chicago, Marcelo has exhibited widely in both national and international venues. Recent solo exhibitions include Moments You Can’t Relive (Central Server Works, Los Angeles, 2024), Love Yours (Baby Blue Gallery, Chicago, 2023), and Be Without Fear (Uncurated Gallery, Online, 2022). His group exhibition highlights include Chicago and Vicinity (and Redux) (c/o Gallery, 2024), Thought Forms (Central Server Works/Marian Projects, Paris, 2023), and Wouldn’t You Love to Know? (Half Gallery, Berkshires, MA, 2023). Marcelo’s works are included in prestigious collections such as the ENS Collection (Los Angeles, CA), the Nick Themelis Collection (New York, NY/Palm Beach, FL), the Deutsch Collection (Chicago, IL), and The Macedonia Institute Collection (Brooklyn, NY), among others, solidifying his position as a rising voice in contemporary art.

In 2024, Marcelo embarked on a transformative phase of experimentation and growth in his practice. Transitioning to fine linen as a medium, he explored the interplay between large and small-scale compositions, refining his mastery of color and technique. This period of development deepened his exploration of ancestral narratives, merging pre-Columbian history with his lived experience to forge a new visual language. Marcelo’s work continues to evolve, offering a thoughtful and resonant perspective on the enduring connections between art, identity, and time.