Noé León was born on February 16, 1907, in Barranquilla, Colombia. Growing up in a modest environment, León had limited formal education and never received traditional artistic training, yet he developed a deep passion for painting from an early age. His self-taught journey began by experimenting with basic materials, and as he honed his craft, he turned to unconventional supplies—often using house paint on materials like cardboard or wood, given his lack of access to standard art materials. This resourceful approach contributed to the distinctive character and rustic charm of his works. León’s art is often categorized within the realm of costumbrismo, a style dedicated to capturing the daily customs, traditions, and essence of local culture. His paintings celebrate the life and vitality of Colombia, especially the Caribbean coast. He depicted scenes from rural and urban life with rich colors, whimsical shapes, and a palpable sense of nostalgia. Common subjects included bustling markets, carnival festivities, religious ceremonies, flora, fauna and everyday people going about their routines. He had an eye for detail and an intuitive sense of composition, which he used to draw viewers into the vibrant lives of his subjects. León’s figures were often painted with exaggerated proportions, echoing a folkloric style similar to that found in Latin American and Caribbean folk art traditions. These exaggerated forms, coupled with his bright color palette, gave his works a childlike innocence, while also conveying the warmth and resilience of his people. Unlike academic or “high” art, León’s work did not focus on realism but on the feelings and dynamics of community life, giving viewers a window into the spirit of Colombian culture. During his life, Noé León was not widely recognized beyond local circles, though he was beloved in his hometown for his friendly personality and dedication to his art. Nonetheless, he continued to create prolifically, committed to his vision of sharing Colombian life and culture through art. It was only after his death on April 23, 1978, that León's work began to receive broader recognition, gaining respect and appreciation in Colombian cultural circles and beyond. Today, his work is considered an important part of Colombia’s artistic heritage, celebrated for its authenticity and his ability to transform everyday scenes into compelling, lively works of art that document the spirit of his time and place.