5 Ways to Find Authentic Latin American Art
Evelyn Galindo, La tortillera
When we talk about finding authentic art—especially in the context of Latin America—what we're really asking is: how can we tell the difference between something that carries the weight of a personal history and a piece that’s simply another commodified object for sale? Art, in its purest form, is storytelling. It’s culture pressed into paint, memory woven into fibers. And when it comes to the art of Latin America, there’s something sacred in that storytelling—a tension between survival and celebration, loss and reinvention.
But authenticity is a tricky thing to define. You can find art that looks "authentic," mimicking the colors and symbols of Latin American traditions, but does it have roots in the life of the artist, or was it simply manufactured to sell? That’s the question.
There’s no denying the convenience of platforms like Amazon. We all know how easy it is to click "add to cart" and bring art into our homes without thinking twice. But I’ve found my own art for sale there—stolen and replicated without permission. I’ve had to file copyright infringement reports to have it removed. It wasn’t just me either; I’ve seen the work of artists I know end up on these sites, or similar ones like Teemu. It’s a reminder that in a world where everything can be replicated, finding something real can be difficult.
But that’s not the focus here. What matters most is: how can we, as collectors and lovers of art, ensure that we are supporting authentic Latin American artists? How do we know what we’re buying has genuine cultural roots?
The Artist’s Story
First, authenticity is rooted in the artist’s story. The best way to know if a piece of art is genuine is to learn about the artist's background. Are they from Latin America? If not, what is their connection to it? Many talented artists may not live in the country their heritage stems from, but their work is no less authentic. Latinx artists—those of Latin American descent, perhaps living elsewhere—often wrestle with the same complex histories and identities in their work. Authenticity isn’t about geography alone; it’s about that cultural lineage.
2. Digital Art and Authenticity
Today, many authentic Latin American artists are using digital tools to create their work, and their art is no less genuine for it. Digital art allows new ways of storytelling, blending tradition with innovation. Just because an artist works digitally doesn’t mean their art lacks authenticity. In fact, the digital medium offers a fusion of the old and the new, where artists can pull from their cultural history and reimagine it through technology.
Take, for instance, Claudia Hart from Mexico, whose digital works explore the interplay of memory, cultural heritage, and identity. Or Alfredo Salazar-Caro, known for his digital installations and virtual reality works that capture the disorientation and complexity of migration and identity. Their work shows that authenticity is about intention and connection to their roots, no matter the medium.
3. Beware of Co-Opted Art
Co-opted art often appropriates traditions without understanding them. You might come across a mass-produced item claiming to reflect Latin American styles—like a “handmade” Peruvian textile—but closer inspection reveals it’s been manufactured by a company with little connection to the region. What you’re buying is an idea of Latin America, not the real thing. And this erases the voices of the true artists whose culture and stories are integral to their work.
4. Signs of Authenticity
So, how do you make sure what you’re buying is the real deal? First, try to buy directly from the artist or through reputable galleries that work closely with Latin American creators. Not only do you get to engage with the artist’s story, but you also support their livelihood in a meaningful way.
Second, understand that authentic art isn’t just about traditional techniques. It’s about the depth of the artist’s connection to their culture. While traditional crafts remain powerful, digital artists are also creating culturally significant works that reflect the complexity of modern Latin American experiences.
5. A Few Digital Artists to Explore
To help guide you, here are a couple of digital artists whose work deeply reflects their Latin American heritage:
Alfredo Salazar-Caro (Mexico), whose digital installations and virtual reality works delve into migration and identity.
Claudia Hart (Mexico), whose digital pieces explore memory and cultural history in deeply personal ways.
Ultimately, finding authentic art is about connection. It’s about knowing that what you hold in your hands—or what hangs on your wall—comes from a place of real experience. It’s not just about owning something beautiful. It’s about honoring the artist, their culture, and the journey that brought their work into your life.
