Meridian Brothers Takeover: Mateo Rivano

Mateo Rivano, also known as “BarbaRoja,” is a versatile Colombian artist based in Bogotá. He is a designer, illustrator, and DJ deeply embedded in Colombia’s vibrant cultural scene. Rivano is celebrated for his innovative graphic work and his contributions to music and visual projects, including his involvement with collectives like “Los Guaqueros,” a DJ duo dedicated to unearthing and reviving vinyl treasures from Colombia and beyond. Rivano’s designs often accompany music releases from groups such as Frente Cumbiero and Ondatrópica, blending traditional and modern aesthetics.

His creative style reflects a fascination with folkloric and tropical sounds, reinterpreting them visually and musically. Rivano’s process integrates both traditional tools, such as Chinese ink and watercolors, and digital techniques. His works often explore themes of cultural preservation and reinterpretation, using art to connect the past with contemporary expressions