Mexican Modernism Exhibit Opens on Oct. 25 at Philadelphia Museum of Art

Frida Kahlo's "Self Portrait on the Border Line Between Mexico and the United States" (1932)  is one of hundreds of pieces on display at the Philadelphia Museum of Art's latest exhibit, "Paint the Revolution: Mexican Modernism, 1910-1950: on display from Oct. 25 - Jan. 8.

The lavish, bold and altogether awesome depictions of Mexico's history from the start, to the middle of the 20th century will be on display at the Philadelphia Museum of Art's exclusive new exhibit "Paint the Revolution: Mexican Modernism, 1910-1950."

A partnership with the Museo del Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City has helped to compile hundreds of works of art from the best Mexian artists of the time, including Kahlo, Rivera and Orzoco, From Kahlo's self portraits to digital repliacs of astounding murals about the overpowering bourgeoisie, this exhibit is a never-ending display of the beautiful artworks of themes so important 100 years ago, that they have continued relevance today.

"This is one of the most comprehensive exhibits of Mexican modernism today," said María Cristina García Cepeda, general director of the Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes during an Oct. 20 press preview. "It's proof that history of art is history of the society it creates."



The concept was proposed by Philadelphia Museum of Art CEO Timothy But with the Museo del Palacio's Director Miguel Fernández Félix.

Rivera's "Liberation of the Peon" (1923)

"Timothy, that is a great idea," But recalled of Félix's reponse. "We are going to do this together."

Félix said the exhibit is a classic display of Mexican art.

Hosted in the museum's Dorrance Special Exhibit Gallery, "Paint the Revolution" is a detailed exploration of Mexico's history starting at 1910 when artist's in style of impressionism and symbolism as it saw its country go with a reconstruction period. Pressing on, we see the rise of Mexican art(ists) as its influence spread across North America, combining the classic stylings of Orzoco and Rivera with American themes. It was during this time that some of the most elaborate and iconic murals were created for public consumption. Thanks to this exhibit, we get to see them in an environment that envelops you in wonder with a little bit of digital enhancement to really appreciate the work. Their messages haven't changed, but how their messages are delivered has, and for the better.

"Painting a Revolution: Mexican Modernism, 1910-1950" will be at the Philadelphia Museum of Art from Oct. 25-Jan. 8 before it moves to the Museo del Palacio de Bellas Artes in February. For tickets and more information visit www.philamuseum.org. 

Orozco's "Barricade" (1931)

Orozco's "Epic of American Civilization" (1932)

Bravo's "Optical Parable" (c. 1931)