Alberto Beltrán
Mexico
(1923 – 2002)
Alberto Beltrán García was a Mexican painter and graphic artist. Although he is primarily known for his political drawings and cartoons, he also made his mark in other artistic fields.
Beltrán was born on March 22, 1923, in Tepito, a low-income neighborhood in Mexico City. His basic education was limited due to his family's economic situation, but his passion for music led him to take singing lessons and debut as an amateur singer on the radio.
Throughout his life, Alberto Beltrán stood out as a caricaturist, illustrator, engraver, and painter. Trained at the Free School of Art and Advertising and at the Academy of San Carlos, he developed a prolific career thanks to his drawing skills. His political cartoons and distinctive style left an important mark on the Mexican artistic scene of the 20th century.
He was one of the founding members of the TGP in 1937. This collective of artists aimed to promote graphic art and social awareness through their works. Beltrán contributed his talent and commitment to the production of engravings and lithographs addressing issues such as justice, labor struggle, and human rights defense. The TGP became a space where artists could express their political and social ideas visually, and Beltrán played a fundamental role in this initiative.
He also had a significant relationship with the Academy of San Carlos, known as the Academy of Arts. There, he received artistic training and developed his skills as a draftsman and engraver. The academy was a place of learning and experimentation for Beltrán, and its influence is reflected in his distinctive style and commitment to graphic representation. Throughout his career, he maintained a connection with this institution, which contributed to his artistic development and his legacy in the history of Mexican art.
Alberto Beltrán's participation in these institutions marked his artistic trajectory and his contribution to Mexico's cultural landscape. Although his work spanned various areas, Alberto Beltrán is especially remembered for his sharp social critique and his commitment to graphic representation. His influence remains relevant in the world of Mexican art.
Alberto Beltrán passed away on April 19, 2002, in Mexico City, leaving behind a significant artistic legacy.