Larger Than Life:

When Tradition, Modernity and Politics Meet

May 9, 16 & 23, 2007 - 7 p.m. - Auditorium

Join us for this three part lecture series presented by Marlisa Mizerak. During the first part of the 20th century, a group of dynamic, politically-minded artists gave rise to what is seen by some as the Mexican Renaissance. The impact of these artists' work can still be felt today. We will examine their work as a group, and then focus on two larger-than-life figures: Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.

Speaking through the Walls: The Mexican Muralist
In the early 20th century, the Mexican Muralists found traditional fresco painting with an updated twist to be a remarkably effective means of giving a voice to the people. Jose Clement Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros and Rufino Tamayo, with Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, fused the modern vocabularies of Cubism and Surrealism with Magic Realism and folk iconography into a movement whose effects are still visible. We will explore the roots of this movement as well as its legacy.

Painter at the Crossroads: Diego Rivera
Mexican artist Diego Rivera's life reflected his art: large-scale and filled with passion, politics and a love of his native land. He brought together modernity and tradition in his paintings, incorporating the language of Cubism with folk art elements. We will look at Diego's life and work, especially his controversial mural in Rockefeller Center, Man at the Crossroads. This piece was so inflammatory that it was ordered to be destroyed by its patron, Nelson Rockefeller.

The Broken Dove: Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo's art owes as much to the Latin American tradition of Magic Realism as it does to modern Surrealism. She gave voice to her physical and emotional pain through her paintings, using a highly personal an innovative iconography. A thoroughly modern woman whose circle included Leon Trotsky, Frida opted for tradition Mexican dress as a show of solidarity with the people. We will examine the art and life of this complicated 20th century icon.

May 9th - Speaking through the Walls: The Mexican Muralist
May 16th - Painters at the Crossroads: Diego Rivera
May 23rd - The Broken Dove: Frida Kahlo

$10 Members; $20 Non-Members per lecture
Call 371-5850, ext. 227 for information and reservations

Lectures begin at 7:00 p.m.