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Draft:Escultor Jonathan Barrantes

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Portrait of Costa Rican sculptor Jonathan Barrantes standing inside one of his wooden sculptures. Taken in 2024.

Jonathan Alberto Barrantes Salazar, known professionally as Escultor Jonathan Barrantes, is a Costa Rican sculptor recognized for his wood carvings that blend biodiversity, cultural identity, and environmental awareness. He is considered one of the most prominent contemporary sculptors in Costa Rica, especially through his public installations and social media presence.[1] He is also a self-taught tenor and integrates music into his artistic expression.

Background and Training

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Jonathan Barrantes was born in *El Carmen*, a district of San José, Costa Rica, and spent most of his childhood in *Cervantes de Cartago*. He began sculpting at the age of 12, guided by his father, José Gerardo Barrantes Fallas. In his youth, he moved away from art to focus on carpentry, technology, graphic design, and audiovisual work. He returned to sculpture in 2018 with a commitment to create exclusive, symbolic pieces—each design being one of a kind.[2] He is married and has four children.

Artistic Style and Purpose

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Barrantes works entirely with reclaimed and certified reforested wood. Approximately 80% of his materials are gathered from fallen trees found in rural roads, riversides, mountains, and beaches. The remaining wood comes from certified sustainable sources approved by Costa Rica's Ministry of Environment (MINAE).

His sculptures explore themes such as:

  • Costa Rican biodiversity
  • National identity and patriotism
  • Rural and equestrian heritage
  • Spirituality and personal growth

He carves by hand using both high-relief and full 3D techniques. His work aims to inspire optimism, connection with nature, and cultural pride.

Notable Works

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Barrantes's most recognized sculptures include:

  • A monumental carving of the Coat of Arms of Costa Rica, exhibited publicly and shared widely on social media
  • Horse-carved wooden doors inspired by Costa Rica's rural traditions
  • A giant crocodile and a biodiversity totem highlighting native species and ecosystems, referencing the Tárcoles River and surrounding rainforest
  • A large wooden 500 colones commemorative coin created for the Bicentennial of Costa Rica's independence and placed in Guanacaste
  • The World's Largest Costa Rican Banknote Sculpture, part of a public showcase of national identity and artistic craftsmanship[3]

His works are displayed in national parks, schools, hotels, tourist destinations, and community landmarks throughout Costa Rica.[4]

Public and Online Impact

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Barrantes has built a significant following through social media platforms where his videos and sculptures have been viewed and shared by audiences across Latin America and the United States. As of 2025, he is the most followed Costa Rican sculptor on social media, with over 349,000 followers on Facebook[5] and more than 180,000 on TikTok.[6] His online presence has contributed to the international visibility of Costa Rican sculpture, particularly through themes that highlight ecological awareness, national heritage, and craftsmanship.[7]

Musical Career

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In addition to sculpture, Barrantes is a tenor who performs classical and popular music. He has written and interpreted original songs, often conveying positive and motivational messages. His music complements his art as part of a broader philosophy of emotional and spiritual enrichment.

Barrantes has performed in venues across Costa Rica and has appeared live on major national television channels, combining his vocal performances with public appearances as an artist. He has also sung with members of the renowned group Los Tenores de Costa Rica on special occasions, although he is not a formal member of the ensemble.[8]

Media Recognition

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Jonathan Barrantes has been featured by:

  • *Teletica* – "Multifaceted sculptor and tenor"
  • *El Observador* – "The Costa Rican sculptor who went viral"
  • *Repretel*, *Multimedios*, *CRHoy*

References

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Category:Costa Rican sculptors Category:Contemporary artists Category:Costa Rican tenors Category:Living people Category:People from Cartago Province