Rivera

Diego Rivera is a prominent figure in art history, known for his political principles, romantic relationships, and involvement in Mexican muralism. He fused European influences with a socialist ideology, creating a new iconography for Mexico. His paintings carry a political and passionate charge, reflecting his personal biography and the social and political context of early 20th-century Mexico. Rivera's work was celebrated in MoMA's second ever monographic exhibition in 1931, and his paintings continue to resonate with audiences today, addressing themes of revolution and class inequality.

Format: Hardback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 27 December 2019
Publisher: Taschen GmbH

Diego Rivera, a prominent figure in art history, left an indelible mark on the world with his vibrant presence. Born in 1886 and passing away in 1957, Rivera's life was a tapestry of political principles, tumultuous romantic relationships, and a complex mix of roles. He served as both husband and confidant to renowned artist Frida Kahlo, an advocate and adversary of the Soviet Union under Stalin, and a liberator and betrayer of Leon Trotsky.

Rivera's paintings, characterized by their vibrant and graphic nature, often showcased monumental compositions. They carried a profound political and passionate charge, mirroring the intensity of his personal journey. By fusing European influences like Cubism with a socialist ideology and an unwavering celebration of Mexico's indigenous and popular heritage, Rivera created a new iconography that resonated not only in art history but also in his country.

He became a pivotal figure in the Mexican mural movement, earning international acclaim for his public wall paintings. These works presented a utopian yet accessible vision of a post-revolutionary Mexico, capturing the spirit of a nation in transition. In 1931, Rivera was the subject of MoMA's second-ever monographic exhibition, further solidifying his place as a unique and universal painter.

This book delves into the intricate blend of influence and ideology that secured Rivera's place as a painter both distinctively Mexican and universally relevant. It explores how his experiences in early 20th-century Mexico, marked by political turmoil and social upheavals, shaped his artistic vision. At the same time, Rivera's preoccupation with themes such as revolution and class inequity continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the enduring power of his art.

Through his profound contributions to art and politics, Diego Rivera remains a towering figure in history, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and provoke thought.

Weight: 564g
Dimension: 264 x 215 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783836504133