Mexican Art

Research papers on art can focus on any aspect of Mexican art that you need examined. You can have it written on Mexican historical representations in art, eras within Mexican art or contemporary Mexican art.

The art of Mexico runs the gamut from Mesoamerican art of the Mayas and Aztecs to modernist artistic movements, such as neo-expressionism and neomexicanismo. The earliest art forms in the region include cave paintings and carvings; the architecture of these great civilizations also stands as some of the most prolific artistic work of the period, as well. It is worth noting that art during this time period was not created for artistic purposes; it instead served a more practical purpose, such as religious teachings, communication, or architectural needs. Those items that we as a modern society might see as art for the sake of art, including statuettes of the feminine form, may have been suited for fertility rituals or other traditions.

The colonial era of Mexican history saw more European influences on art in the region, particularly in architectural styles. Paintings were almost always anonymous and subjects were limited to the natural world or religious scenes.

• Baroque painting in the 17th century continued this religious focus in Mexican Art.
• In the 1800s and 1900s, the Mexican Revolution had a profound impact on Mexican Art, with increasing emphasis on icons and symbols, such as an eagle perched on a cactus.
• Muralism and revolutionary art manifested in the early 20th century, notably through the work of husband and wife, Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.

As with many countries, the art of Mexico has been reflective of its historical path, incorporating themes and iconography that correlate to the struggles of the era in which it was created.