A Legacy of Latin American Art: The FEMSA Collection Celebrates 50 Years
The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Monterrey (Marco) is currently hosting “Constelaciones y derivas. Arte de América Latina desde la Colección FEMSA,” a landmark exhibition marking the 50th anniversary of one of Latin America’s most significant art collections. The show, which opened to the public today, features 174 works by 115 artists, tracing over a century of artistic expression.
The Genesis of a Collection: A Gift from Rosario Garza Sada
The collection’s origins are deeply rooted in philanthropy. In 1977, Rosario Garza Sada donated “El Maizal (milpa seca)” – an oil on masonite painting by Dr. Atl – to her nephew for the Museo Monterrey, which at the time lacked a formal collection. This single piece served as the seed for what would become the FEMSA Collection, a testament to Garza Sada’s commitment to the arts.
A Diverse Tapestry of Artistic Movements
“Constelaciones y derivas” isn’t a chronological survey, but rather a thematic exploration of Latin American art. The exhibition showcases a remarkable breadth of styles and movements, from Surrealism – exemplified by iconic works like Remedios Varo’s “Papilla estelar” and Leonora Carrington’s “Step sister´s hen (or Marigold, Marigold, tell me your answers do)” – to Muralism, featuring pieces by David Alfaro Siqueiros, Diego Rivera, and José Clemente Orozco.
The curatorial team, comprised of Paulina Bravo, Beto Díaz, Eugenia Braniff, and Adriana Melchor, has likewise highlighted lesser-known facets of Latin American art, including queer art with works by Ángel Zárraga and Julio Galán, feminist perspectives, and representations of colonial-era castas. The exhibition includes both figurative and abstract works, offering a comprehensive view of the region’s artistic landscape.
Beyond the Canvas: Interdisciplinary Approaches
The FEMSA Collection is expanding its reach beyond traditional visual arts. The exhibition features “Bara bara (Divisor Pirata Naranja)” (2017) by Pía Camil, an installation created from secondhand clothing referencing open-air markets. A new installation by Argentine artist Ad Minoliti, with a focus on anti-adultism and queer aesthetics, is being unveiled. A unique initiative, “Rutas Metabólicas,” will merge art and gastronomy, offering visitors artistically inspired dishes at the Marco restaurant starting in April.
A Traveling Exhibition and Continued Impact
Following its run at Marco (until August 9th), “Constelaciones y derivas” will travel to the Museo Amparo in Puebla, with further destinations planned. Laura Pacheco, Gerente de la Colección y Bienal FEMSA, emphasizes the significance of the collection’s longevity, stating that its sustained support of the arts represents a valuable contribution to society.
Spotlight on Key Works
- “Papilla estelar” (1958), by Remedios Varo
- “El maizal (milpa seca)” (1955), by Dr. Atl
- “La Mujer Dormida” (1947), by David Alfaro Siqueiros
- “Tres futbolistas con boina” (1921), by Ángel Zárraga
- “Dibujos sin papel” (1976-1988), by Gego
- “Step sister´s hen (or Marigold, Marigold, tell me your answers do)” (1952), by Leonora Carrington
Plan Your Visit
“Constelaciones y derivas. Arte de América Latina desde la Colección FEMSA”
- Museo Marco, Zuazua y Jardón, Centro de Monterrey
- Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Wednesdays, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Closed Mondays
- Free admission on Wednesdays and Sundays
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who founded the FEMSA Collection?
A: The collection began with a donation from Rosario Garza Sada in 1977.
Q: What types of art are featured in the exhibition?
A: The exhibition showcases a diverse range of styles, including Surrealism, Muralism, queer art, and feminist perspectives.
Q: Where will the exhibition travel after Monterrey?
A: The exhibition will next be shown at the Museo Amparo in Puebla.
Q: Is there a cost to attend the exhibition?
A: Admission is free on Wednesdays and Sundays.
Did you grasp? The FEMSA Collection now comprises over 1,200 works of art.
Explore more about Latin American art and culture. Share your thoughts on the exhibition in the comments below!
