Beneath these walls lies a story of artistry and revolution. Welcome to the Museo Salón Posada. It is a place where the spirit of Mexico comes alive through the iconic prints of José Guadalupe Posada.
José Guadalupe Posada was no ordinary artist. He was a printmaker. He was a common man. Posada died a pauper. His body was interred in an unmarked grave. Yet, his art reached the hearts of his countrymen. He created more than 20000 images documenting nearly every aspect of life in Mexico.
Posada’s satirical skeletons or calaveras are his most iconic works. They have become a symbol of Mexican identity. In the late 19th century Mexico was modernizing. Mexico City bustled with published materials. These publications satisfied the growing metropolis. They also catered to the budding middle class.
Antonio Vanegas Arroyo was a visionary publisher. He employed Posada. Posada created expressive images. These images reflected and informed the transitioning culture of Mexico City. Many residents were illiterate. Posada’s art became their voice.
Posada’s art lampooned politicians. It recorded vivid images of the Mexican Revolution. His work inspired Mexico’s famed Taller Grafica Popular. They used art for social causes. Posada’s influence extended beyond Mexico. He helped the Cuban Revolution succeed. His images adorned concert tickets for the Grateful Dead. Today, his skeletal images come to life during Day of the Dead. Even Disney and Pixar celebrate the holiday. Posada’s influence is rarely associated with his name. His true story is virtually unknown.
Vanegas Arroyo was Posada’s main editor. He directed and crafted the publications. These publications displayed and catered to the popular culture of Mexico. The Vanegas Arroyo print shop injected thousands of ideas and images into the hands of many using inexpensive print media. Vanegas Arroyo set the agenda for content. He had an extraordinary ability to feel the pulse of daily life in Mexico City. Posada illustrated everything. This included news songs and stories. Many were penned by Vanegas Arroyo himself. They did not shy away from political figures and satirical critiques. They illustrated contemporary issues with increased vigor. Mexico hurtled toward revolution. Together Vanegas Arroyo and Posada became a dominant force. They shaped Mexican identity and popular culture.
The Museo Salón Posada holds a wide representation of Posada’s work. This includes his famous Day of the Dead calaveras. It also has the artist’s original printing plates. This unique exhibition brings together nearly seventy of Posada’s most iconic images. The exhibition explores the relationship between Posada and Antonio Vanegas Arroyo. Posada worked and collaborated with Vanegas Arroyo from 1889 until his death in 1913.
One section of the Museo Salón Posada is dedicated to Posada’s legacy. It shows the unbelievable sphere of influence his images have had. Posada’s images connect events like the Mexican Revolution and the Cuban Revolution.
As you leave the Museo Salón Posada remember José Guadalupe Posada. He was a printmaker for the people. His art reflects the spirit of Mexican identity. It imparts a universal perspective that extends well beyond the borders of his native Mexico.