Santiago Medina

Desire in Black

2023

Using his skills as a physician accomplished at MRI and 3D imaging, master sculptor Santiago Medina combines technological sophistication with artistic expression to create timeless abstract sculptures. 

Born in 1964 in Medellin, Colombia, Medina had a passion for art at an early age and studied at the DR Bellas Artes Institute in Colombia from 1972 to 1981. From 1983 to 1987, he furthered his art education at the Spanish Academy of Art while also pursuing his medical training at CES University in Medellin. After graduating with his doctor of medicine, Medina attended Harvard Medical School in Boston and the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis from 1990 to 1997, specializing in medical imaging, radiology and anatomy. The following year, he continued his artistic studies at the Art Academy of Cincinnati.

As a sculptor, Medina uses 3D imaging technology to mold and shape Italian stainless steel into beautiful still-life sculptures, each bestowed with fluidity and elegance. To enhance his visually interesting works, he adds tints of color using aerospace paint, as seen in such abstract and contemporary pieces as Flame, Cupid and Perseverance.

Medina’s works have garnered critical acclaim. Along with notable English artist Henry Moore, Medina is one of the few sculptors to have a permanent monumental sculpture at Harvard University. Additionally, his works are featured in public art venues at Stanford University, Tufts University, CES Contemporary Art Museum, Florida International University and the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami. 

Medina’s avant-garde sculptures have been shown at major exhibitions and art fairs worldwide, including the New York Art Fair, Art Basel Miami Beach, Houston Art Fair, Art Market San Francisco, Hamptons Art Fair and the International Art Fair of Bogotá.

On 1stDibs, discover a range of Santiago Medina’s sculptures, prints and more art.