Ecology, Acrobats, Masses. Can you guess what these words have to do with the Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros? This is no ordinary building. It’s one of Mexico City’s most photographed structures. Originally part of the World Trade Center complex the Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros is now an independent cultural center.
The Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros is best known for bearing the extensive work of muralist David Alfaro Siqueiros. His art covers just about every available surface. “The March of Humanity” covers the walls and ceilings. It was originally designed as the Universal Forum. Many call it the largest mural in the world.
The mural at the Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros shows the evolution of humanity. It goes from the past to the present and offers a vision of the future. The Polyforum Theater inside is circular. It is in the ancient Greek style. The center hosts art exhibitions and similar events frequently.
The Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros was commissioned as a mural in 1960. By the mid-1960s, the plans changed. It became not just a painting but an entire building. An international team assembled to complete the project. Architects, engineers, painters and sculptors all worked together. Acoustics experts also came from Japan, Italy and Argentina. Political and financial issues delayed the opening until 1971.
Since then, the Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros has hosted significant cultural and theater works. Exhibitions and rallies have taken place here too.
The Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros often presents a sound and light show. It features a recording of Siqueiros narrating the mural’s meaning. Inside, the Forum is about 11 meters high. An on-site museum displays photos and memorabilia. These items are from the artist and businessman Manuel Suárez. Suárez contributed much to the center’s building and construction. Original models give visitors a better understanding. They explain the Polyforum’s construction and history.
Outside the Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros, see the sculpture of Manuel Suárez with Siqueiros. Gabriel Ponzanelli created it. He is best known for the Coyotes sculpture in Coyoacán’s Jardín Centenario. The Polyforum Metrobús station is right out front.
The Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros is a decagon-shaped building. It has different exhibition spaces featuring Siqueiros’ work. Siqueiros nicknamed it “El coronelazo.” The exterior is diamond-shaped. The inside has eight sides.
The exterior of the Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros features a sculptural mural painting. It covers 2,750 square feet. Each of the twelve faces depicts a different concept. These include Destiny, Ecology and Acrobats. Others are Masses, Decalog and Christ. Indigenous Peoples, Dance, and Mythology are also shown. The Mingling of Races, Music and Atom complete the set. The exterior work previews the interior mural. It entices visitors to enter the building. It makes them contemplate the complex meanings.
Inside, the main feature is the Forum Universal. It contains Siqueiros’ mural “La Marcha de la Humanidad”. The building has four floors. It covers 134,000 square feet. It includes a theater and two galleries. Siqueiros’ mural covers the dome on the top floor. Up to one thousand people can stand on a rotating platform. They can view the mural.
A light and sound program educates viewers about the mural. The next floor features local and international art exhibitions. Below this is a theater. It features performances and a shopping area. It is called the Universal Forum Emerging Art Space. The basement is an open space. It is used for storage and exhibitions.
The Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros suffered deterioration over its first forty years. This affected its structure and murals. The mural damage was due to environmental factors. It also involved the materials Siqueiros used. Remodeling work began in 2011 for its fortieth anniversary. Some restoration happened then, but funds prevented completion.
The Polyforum Cultural Siqueiros stands as a testament to art. It represents history and culture. Its survival depends on continued appreciation. It also needs ongoing preservation.