Diego Rivera

Date of Birth: December 8, 1886

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: November 24, 1957

Biography

Diego Rivera was a renowned Mexican artist born on December 8, 1886, in Guanajuato, Mexico. He is best known for his large-scale murals that helped establish the Mexican mural movement. Rivera’s work is characterized by its bold use of color, social realism, and often politically charged themes. His murals are not only celebrated for their artistic merit but also for their historical and social commentary. Rivera studied art at the Academy of San Carlos in Mexico City before traveling to Europe, where he was influenced by the works of Pablo Picasso and Paul Cézanne. Upon returning to Mexico, he became deeply involved in the political and artistic renaissance of the country, believing that art should serve the people and reflect their struggles and aspirations. One of his most famous works is the series of murals at the National Palace in Mexico City, depicting the history of Mexico from pre-Columbian times through the Mexican Revolution. Rivera was also known for his tumultuous relationship with fellow artist Frida Kahlo, whom he married in 1929. Their relationship was marked by mutual admiration, infidelity, and intense passion. Rivera’s influence extended beyond Mexico, with commissions in the United States, including the Detroit Industry Murals and the controversial Man at the Crossroads mural at Rockefeller Center in New York City, which was destroyed due to its depiction of communist themes.

5 Interesting Facts about Diego Rivera

1. Diego Rivera was expelled from the Academy of San Carlos for participating in a student protest.

2. He was a founding member of the Mexican Communist Party.

3. Rivera had a total of four wives and numerous lovers throughout his life.

4. His mural “Man at the Crossroads” was destroyed due to its portrayal of Lenin, leading to significant controversy.

5. Rivera was an avid collector of pre-Columbian art and had a vast collection housed in his home, Anahuacalli Museum in Mexico City.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Diego Rivera

1. “I’ve never believed in God, but I believe in Picasso.”

2. “Art is not for the walls, it is to be seen by the people.”

3. “To be an artist, one must be a creator, a critic, and a craftsman.”

4. “My painting carries with it the message of pain.”

5. “I want to use my art as a weapon.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Diego Rivera’s highest net worth is estimated to have been around $1 million at the time of his death, a significant amount for an artist of his era.

Children

Diego Rivera had several children, including: – Diego Rivera, born in 1916, who passed away shortly after birth. – Guadalupe Rivera Marín, born in 1924, who became a prominent historian and writer. – Ruth Rivera Marín, born in 1927, who was an architect.