October 15, 2025 - May 14, 2025

Philadelphia-based artist Calo Rosa was born in San Salvador to a family of artists and musicians. Following his formal education in fine arts and graphic design, he became frustrated with the exclusivity of the local gallery scene. Rosa grew increasingly interested in public artwork and began to define his own street art style. His bold, colorful works reflect vibrant Latin American culture, capturing the rhythms, textures, and spirit of the urban-tropical experience.

For his work at Philadelphia International Airport, Rosa wanted to convey the mystery and significance that the tropical landscape holds for him, “As soon as I step out of the airport, to my homeland of El Salvador, I can feel the flora welcome me back. The palmeras wave their greeting in the breeze. I can only recognize this feeling after having spent time away. Each time I go back to my country I’m greeted by the land. There is a special energy hiding in the plants that no words can describe that I try to portray with my artwork.” Using spray paint, markers, and acrylic paint, Rosa evokes an energetic tropical scene with overlapping silhouettes of palm fronds and Bird of Paradise flowers. The vivid color palette is applied in layers to emulate the depth and complexity of tropical vegetation and give the work a sense of movement.