The legacy of three inspiring Mexican muralists

Have you noticed how the facades and walls of iconic buildings in Guadalajara or Mexico City also serve as canvases for majestic paintings that narrate the history of this country? These monumental artworks are the signature of the “three great ones” Mexican muralists: José Clemente Orozco, Diego Rivera, and David Alfaro Siqueiros.

Through their work, they immortalized the soul of a nation, its struggles, and its dreams. Today, we’ll tell you about Orozco, Rivera, and Siqueiros, the surnames that also lend their names to the meeting rooms at the Grand Velas resorts.

José Clemente Orozco: The force of muralism

The painter from Jalisco, José Clemente Orozco (1883-1949), was educated at the National Preparatory School and the Academy of San Carlos. From a young age, Orozco was captivated by the work of José Guadalupe Posada, the creator of “La Calavera Garbancera” (later renamed La Catrina), who was a fundamental influence on his artistic style and critical social vision.

The murals of José Clemente Orozco are distinguished by their raw depiction of reality and the use of light and shadow to create a sense of movement and tension. Among the most iconic artworks by José Clemente Orozco are the murals at the Hospicio Cabañas in Guadalajara, where he painted “Man of Fire,” as well as “Prometheus” at Pomona College, which many consider the first modern mural in the United States.

Diego Rivera: The muralist of the people

Diego María de la Concepción Juan Nepomuceno Estanislao de la Rivera y Barrientos Acosta y Rodríguez (1886-1957) was born in Guanajuato, studied at the Academy of San Carlos, and later, during his time in Europe, was influenced by the monumentality and narrative of fresco painting, in addition to exploring cubism and post-impressionism.

The murals of Diego Rivera are known for being a visual journey through the history of Mexico, from the pre-Hispanic era to the Mexican Revolution, and for conveying social messages. Works like “Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park” in the Diego Rivera Mural Museum located in Mexico City, and the “Detroit Industry Murals” in the central courtyard of the Detroit Institute of Arts are a testament to his genius.

David Alfaro Siqueiros: Art as Action

David Alfaro Siqueiros, born in Mexico City (1896-1974), was a political activist and a painter with an experimental technique. He studied at the National Preparatory School and the Academy of San Carlos.

The artworks of David Alfaro Siqueiros are characterized by their dynamism and perspective, often using innovative materials and techniques. He was a pioneer in using synthetic paint and airbrush in his murals. Among the most important works by David Alfaro Siqueiros are “The Call to Liberty” and the mural at the Polyforum Siqueiros, known as “The March of Humanity.”

The next time you visit one of our resorts, take a moment to remember the history behind each name. It’s a small tribute to the Mexican muralists who painted our history!