Mexican Prints at the Vanguard in New York's MET

Imagine a time when literacy was a luxury, and the masses relied on visual art to stay informed. During Mexico’s politically charged years, prints were a powerful tool for communication and resistance. They captured the essence of societal struggles and triumphs, making them accessible to everyone, regardless of their education level. But there’s one story that stands out among the rest…

You've surely heard of Jose Guadalupe Posada, but have you ever heard of Antonio Vanegas Arroyo? This man was a visionary publisher who understood the power of the printed image. He became a pivotal figure in shaping public opinion in Mexico during the 19th and early 20th centuries. He was the mastermind behind a massive network of broadsides, affordable printed sheets that were essentially the newspapers of the day.

How he did it was absolutely fascinating. Vanegas Arroyo wasn't just dishing out dry facts. He was telling stories, shaping narratives, and influencing the minds of millions. And he wasn't doing it alone. He had a knack for finding incredibly talented illustrators who could bring his words to life. He was the one to discover and employ such greats as Jose Guadalupe Posada and Manuel Manilla, two names that have become the epitome of Mexican art.

These artists created iconic images that were instantly recognizable and accessible to the masses. Posada, famous for his skeletal figures known as “calaveras,” brought Arroyo’s stories to life with his striking illustrations. These images were so compelling that even those who couldn’t read were captivated by the narratives they depicted. Manilla, another brilliant illustrator, added his unique touch, ensuring that Arroyo’s prints were not just informative but also visually stunning. From satirical cartoons to political commentary, their work was a powerful tool for social change. And it wasn't just about entertainment. These prints were often used to spread information about public health, education, and social issues.

The influence of these early prints extended far beyond their initial publication. But how did these early illustrations evolve into the vibrant and diverse world of Mexican printmaking we know today? The answer lies in the influence that these early illustrations had on some of the seminal artists that came after, talents such as Pablo O'higgins, Leopoldo Mendez and Luis Arenal who upon finding some of the metal plates from the Vanegas Arroyo workshop had the idea to establish the Taller Gráfico Popular (TGP) in 1937. Workshops like these were art collectives that continued the tradition of using prints to address social and political issues of the time with a noted bias for the Mexican worker and communist ideals. The TGP’s work ensured that the legacy of Mexican printmaking would endure, influencing generations of artists and activists. Inspired by the legacy of Vanegas Arroyo and his collaborators, these workshops provided a platform for artists to experiment with new techniques and explore social and political themes.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City has recently opened the exhibition, “Mexican Prints at the Vanguard” which showcases over 130 works, including woodcuts, lithographs, and screen prints by artists like Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, and Leopoldo Méndez. So, what's the big deal about Mexican prints that they are the focus of this event at such an important institution? Well, for starters, they're a testament to the power of art to inform, inspire, and challenge. They're a reflection of Mexico's rich history, culture, and struggles. And they're a reminder that even in the face of adversity, art can be a powerful force for change. These pieces highlight the enduring power of prints in shaping cultural and political discourse.

This exhibition is a rare opportunity to see these influential works up close and personal. It’s a chance to understand how art can transcend its medium to become a force for change. If you're ready to dive deeper into the world of Mexican prints and discover the stories that have shaped a nation, don’t miss your chance to experience this incredible exhibition, on view until January 5, 2025.

Discover Mexican Prints at the Vanguard in 32 Reales