Hispanic Heritage Month is in full swing and we would love to take this time to highlight some of the Hispanic artists that have made such a deep impression on our world. From brilliant frescos that stretch across some of our most iconic buildings to beautiful words that stretch across time, these Hispanic artists are long gone, but their art lives on.
Frida Kahlo
Born in Mexico City, Mexico in 1907, Frida’s early life was defined by a tragic bus accident that left her unable to walk for several months in 1925. The accident and following isolation allowed her to concentrate on her art, painting things, “As she alone saw them.” The brilliant artist went on to define Mexican art for the next century. And still today, her works are used by feminist, LGBT, and Mexican cultural groups the world over as symbols of their struggle.
Pablo Neruda
Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda was also born in 1907, this time in rural Chile. He started writing poetry at age 13, and soon took the Latino literary world by storm. Publishing works throughout his entire life, Neruda won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1971, capping off a lifetime of achievement. Unfortunately, this literary giant was killed in 1973, allegedly under the orders of the brutal Chilean dictator Augosto Pinochet.
Diego Rivera
Born Diego María de la Concepción Juan Nepomuceno Estanislao de la Rivera y Barrientos Acosta y Rodríguez in 1886, Diego Rivera became a phenom of the world’s art scene by the 1920’s. During that time he helped to establish and define the Mexican muralist art movement, with his work being installed not only in cities throughout Mexico, but also Detroit, New York City, and San Francisco. Outside of the art world, Rivera played a heavy role in international politics from the late 1920s until his death in 1957.
Even from decades in the past, these amazing artists still inspire millions of people today. By tapping into their proud heritage, they continue to give a guiding voice to Hispanic artists the world over.
This month, take some time to learn about Hispanic artists in your area, they may become your new favorites!