Roger Von Gunten

Biografía

Roger von Gunten (b. 1933, Zurich, Switzerland) is a Swiss painter whose work has played a crucial role in shaping contemporary art in Mexico. He studied at the School of Arts and Crafts in Zurich and later specialized in metal engraving at the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City. In the 1960s, he joined a group of young painters who would later be known as the Generación de la Ruptura. He became a Mexican citizen in 1980 and lived in Mexico City, Michoacán, and Morelos. Von Gunten’s art is recognized for its vibrant use of color, abstract figures, and forms that celebrate the joy of Mexican life. His work is informed by what he calls a "personal mythology," drawing on memories and emotions that emerge as he engages with his canvas. His paintings often reflect his environment and external influences, with a distinctive visual language that has remained consistent throughout his career. Von Gunten’s work has been exhibited internationally, and he has received numerous accolades, including the 2014 Medalla de Bellas Artes. His work is part of major collections worldwide and has been showcased in notable institutions such as the Museo de la Estampa in Mexico City and the OECD headquarters in Paris.