Los Four

Los Four was a Chicano artist collective active in Los Angeles, California, from 1973 to 1976. The group consisted of Carlos Almaraz, Frank Romero, Robert de la Rocha, and Gilbert Luján (also known as Magu).

Formed out of the broader Chicano art movement, Los Four aimed to bring Chicano art into the mainstream art world. They sought to achieve this through exhibitions, murals, and public art projects that reflected Chicano culture, experiences, and political concerns. Their work often incorporated elements of Mexican folk art, pre-Columbian imagery, and contemporary urban life.

A significant achievement for Los Four was their 1974 exhibition at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), titled "Los Four: Almaraz, de la Rocha, Lujan, Romero." This was the first Chicano art exhibition held at a major museum, marking a pivotal moment in the recognition and acceptance of Chicano art within established art institutions. The exhibition showcased the diverse styles and individual perspectives of each artist while highlighting their shared cultural heritage.

Despite their relatively short period of collaboration, Los Four left a lasting impact on the Chicano art movement and the broader art world. Each member continued to pursue successful individual careers as artists after the group disbanded, further contributing to the visibility and influence of Chicano art. Their work is now included in major museum collections and continues to be celebrated for its artistic merit and cultural significance.