José Luis Álvarez was considered the last master of light. Alvarez has stood out for shading the luminous contrast of the shadows, creating optical illusions that identify him. His best-known public work is the scene “Corte de Café.” From 1949 to 1959, he worked as a restaurateur on national projects.

Alvarez is known as one of the first landscape artists from Guatemala. Amidst a prolific generation of national art, Alvarez developed a delicate impasto technique and subtle use of color.

Awards: National Competition November Fair (1938). For three consecutive years, the winner of the First prize at the Arturo Martinez contest. First, Second, and Third prize at Fiesta de Los Morenos, Mixco, Guatemala.