La Carpio

La Carpio is a multidisciplinary artist collective whose work emerges from the vibrant and resilient community of La Carpio, a densely populated neighborhood in San José, Costa Rica. Formed by local youth in response to social marginalization and inspired by their diverse cultural heritage, La Carpio explores themes of identity, migration, and urban life through a range of media including muralism, photography, spoken word, and performance art. Their creative process is deeply collaborative, drawing on shared experiences of displacement—many members are of Nicaraguan descent—and channeling those stories into powerful visual narratives that reclaim visibility for their neighborhood.

La Carpio has exhibited work both locally and internationally, engaging the public through participatory projects that aim to challenge stereotypes and foster dialogue about social justice, community transformation, and the power of art as a tool for empowerment. Their efforts have established them as key contributors to Costa Rica’s contemporary art scene, giving voice to overlooked communities and forging connections between art, activism, and social change.