How Eddie White Jr. Drew His Way Into a New Life in Colombia

Eddie White Jr., an Australian illustrator, found himself in Colombia unexpectedly, transitioning from a planned short visit to a longer stay during the pandemic. Initially, his time in the city was not as he had envisioned, but it provided him with ample opportunity to observe and document the everyday aspects of life. This observation led to his art being infused with the flavors, sayings, and details of Colombia.

During his time in lockdown, White began to capture the nuances of Colombia through his illustrations, focusing on aspects such as food, music, colors, and expressions. He shared his work online, which garnered him an audience and allowed him to connect with the city and its people in a unique way. His illustrations included an illustrated alphabet that explored Colombian food, music, and cultural symbols, bringing these elements to life through his lens as an outsider.

White’s work has not been without challenges. His illustrations depicting women from various regions of Colombia received criticism for relying on stereotypes, prompting him to reflect on the representation of culture from an outsider's perspective. However, this criticism also pushed him to become more mindful of the assumptions that can shape cultural portrayals, prompting him to approach his work with greater sensitivity.

Despite the complexity he encountered, White continues to collect cultural details but now emphasizes listening and learning alongside observation. His illustrations are not definitive representations of Colombian culture, but rather reflections of his personal experiences, observations, and interactions.

White’s work includes recognizable elements of daily life in Colombia, such as food, phrases, and songs, each illustrating a facet of the culture. His book "Caldo de ojo: 100 dichos y palabras colombianas" pairs these illustrations with translations and explanations in both Spanish and English, highlighting the humor and cultural context behind these sayings and words.

White’s journey from Adelaide to Colombia has been one of transformation and connection. His career, which began in animation, was tested by the pandemic, but it ultimately led him to a new path where drawing has become an integral part of his life. His work, "Neotropico," a live-action feature with fantastical elements, is set to be filmed in Colombia, further cementing his ties to the country.

Through his art, White continues to celebrate Colombian life, adding his unique perspective and bringing a piece of Colombia to audiences around the world.