The Mexican Revolution (1910–20) ended a 30-year dictatorship. It was the catalyst for the country’s transformation into a more modern, democratic nation that championed cultural and economic nationalism, land reform, workers’ rights, and social justice. In the 1920s, amid these sweeping political and social changes, artists and intellectuals reimagined culture’s role in society.
The state commissioned large-scale frescoes in civic buildings throughout the country, many of which were painted by “Los tres grandes” (The Three Greats): José Clemente Orozco, Diego Rivera, and David Alfaro Siqueiros. Cosmopolitan vanguard artist groups emerged, including the Estridentistas (Noisemakers) in 1921, whose members advocated for both artistic experimentation and revolutionary ideals. Free public art schools were opened, and educators embraced local art and craft traditions as part of their curricula. This great flourishing of creativity, which also included design, architecture, photography, literature, and music, inspired artists throughout the continent to move to Mexico.
Organized by Beverly Adams, The Estrellita Brodsky Curator of Latin American Art, with Damasia Lacroze, Curatorial Associate, Department of Painting and Sculpture, and Rachel Remick, Curatorial Associate, Department of Curatorial Affairs and Department of Painting and Sculpture.