Rafael Navarro Barajas (Tonila, Jalisco, 1921 – Mexico City, 1992) studied at the Academia de San Carlos and, in 1944, enrolled at La Esmeralda (National School of Painting, Sculpture and Printmaking). He began participating in group exhibitions and later received a scholarship from the French Institute to continue his studies in Europe. His first solo exhibition was held in 1953 at the Galería de Arte Mexicano (Mexican Art Gallery), which represented his work for many years and included it in various group exhibitions.