ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Pinochet-Era Mural Rediscovered Under Paint in Chile

cultural-heritage · 2026-07-22

A monumental mural by Julio Escámez in Chile, long thought destroyed after Pinochet ordered its removal, was discovered intact beneath a layer of paint. Conservators are now restoring the work, bringing it back to public view. The mural's survival was revealed by Artnet.

Key facts

  • Julio Escámez's mural in Chile was thought destroyed after Pinochet ordered its elimination.
  • Conservators discovered the mural had only been painted over.
  • The mural is now being restored and brought back into the light.
  • The story was reported by Artnet.

Entities

Artists

  • Julio Escámez

Institutions

  • Artnet

Locations

  • Chile

Sources