Ways of seeing art

Mexico has undergone some of the most significant sociological transformations of any nation in the world. From its origins as one of the largest Indigenous civilizations, through European colonization, the struggle for independence, and the emergence of a social revolution, the country has experienced profound and continual change. Throughout these historical shifts, artists have played a critical role in responding to, interpreting, and documenting Mexico’s evolving cultural identity.

This workshop examines Mexican art through the perspective of the artist by situating artistic production within its broader socioeconomic context. Participants will analyze why public murals, mass print media, and traditional crafts emerged as distinct and influential modes of communication for artists working in Mexico.

Each day of the workshop will focus on a specific artistic movement and one to three representative artists. Through close examination of their work, participants will engage with the central analytical question of “why”: Why was this art created, and what social, political, or economic conditions necessitated its production?