Dairo Vargas

Born in Agrado, Huila, Colombia in 1978, Vargas began painting at an early age and sold his first work as a teenager. He later studied graphic design at Unitec University in Bogotá before moving to London in 2005 to further pursue fine art. He completed studies at Kensington and Chelsea College and later attended a sculpture course at Central Saint Martins.

Vargas’ paintings are recognized for their dreamlike atmospheres, fluid brushwork, and emotional intensity.

Alongside his studio practice, Vargas is known for advocating mental health awareness through art. He founded The Art Listens initiative and has led collaborative workshops and community projects around the world focused on healing, trauma recovery, and emotional expression. His projects have included collaborations connected to the World Health Organization and international mental health summits.