Diego Rivera

By LatAm ARTE

Diego Rivera was born on December 8, 1886, in Guanajuato, Mexico. He showed artistic talent at a young age and began studying art at ten. Rivera studied at the Academy of San Carlos in Mexico City. In 1907, he traveled to Europe to further his studies. He spent several years in Paris, where he was influenced by Cubism. Rivera eventually embraced a more classical and figurative style. He returned to Mexico in the 1920s, inspired by revolutionary ideals. Rivera became a leading figure in the Mexican muralism movement. His murals often depicted social struggles and Mexican history. Major works include murals at the National Palace and the Detroit Institute of Arts. Rivera believed art should be public and reflect the lives of ordinary people. He was also politically active and a member of the Communist Party. Rivera had a passionate and stormy marriage with artist Frida Kahlo. His work left a lasting impact on Mexican art and public consciousness. Diego Rivera died on November 24, 1957, in Mexico City.