Mexican Muralism emerged after the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920) as a state-sponsored cultural project to educate a largely illiterate population and forge a national identity. Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco and David Alfaro Siqueiros — the "triumvirate" of muralism — decorated public buildings with monumental frescoes narrating the history of Mexico, from pre-Hispanic civilizations to the struggle of workers. The movement profoundly influenced Latin American art and Chicano muralism in the United States.
Main characteristics
- ●Murals in public spaces accessible to all
- ●Historical and political narratives
- ●Fusion of indigenous traditions with European techniques
- ●Marxist and nationalist ideological commitment
- ●Italian Renaissance-style fresco technique
Key works
- History of Mexico – Rivera (National Palace)
- Man at the Crossroads – Rivera
- Katharsis – Orozco