Mexican Muralism

1920–1960

Rivera's encyclopedic narratives, Orozco's anguished fire. Public art as revolutionary education.

True fresco, encaustic, Pyroxylin (industrial lacquer). Monumental scale on public buildings.

2 artists12 colors

Diego Rivera

1886–1957

Mexican

Master muralist. Encyclopedic narratives of Mexican history — from Pre-Columbian to industrial revolution.

True fresco technique learned in Italy. Earth-toned palette with vivid accents. Monumental scale — Detroit Institute, Palacio Nacional.

José Clemente Orozco

1883–1949

Mexican

The darkest muralist. Prometheus on fire, soldiers in agony — suffering without redemption.

Near-monochrome palette in most powerful works. Fire and flesh against darkness. More expressionist than Rivera.