Obregón and Calles' Support for Indigenista Art: A Search for National Identity
Álvaro Obregón and Plutarco Elías Calles, two prominent figures in early 20th-century Mexico, both championed indigenista art. Their support stemmed from a shared desire to forge a strong national identity in the aftermath of the Mexican Revolution, using art as a powerful tool to unite a fractured nation and celebrate its indigenous heritage. This movement wasn't simply an aesthetic preference; it was a deliberate political and cultural strategy.
What is Indigenista Art?
Before delving into the reasons behind Obregón and Calles' support, it's crucial to understand indigenismo itself. This artistic and intellectual movement emphasized the portrayal and celebration of Indigenous Mexican culture, history, and identity. It was a reaction against the European artistic traditions that had dominated Mexican art for centuries, seeking instead to reclaim and revalorize the rich cultural heritage of Mexico's indigenous populations. Indigenista art frequently depicted scenes of rural life, pre-Hispanic imagery, and the struggles and resilience of Indigenous communities. This artistic expression aimed to reclaim a sense of national pride rooted in the country's indigenous past.
Why did Obregón and Calles Support Indigenista Art?
Their motivations were multifaceted and intertwined with the political and social landscape of post-revolutionary Mexico:
1. Fostering National Unity:
The Mexican Revolution (1910-1920) had left the country deeply divided. Obregón and Calles recognized the need to create a shared national identity that transcended class and regional differences. By promoting indigenista art, they sought to unify Mexicans around a common cultural heritage, emphasizing the contributions of Indigenous peoples to the nation's history and identity. This was a crucial step in building a stable and cohesive nation.
2. Promoting a New National Narrative:
The revolution challenged the traditional, elitist narratives that had dominated Mexican history. Indigenismo offered a counter-narrative, celebrating the contributions and resilience of Indigenous communities often overlooked or marginalized in previous historical accounts. This shift in perspective was a powerful tool for social and political reform, recognizing the cultural richness and historical significance of Indigenous Mexicans.
3. Reconciling with the Indigenous Population:
The revolution also saw a significant shift in the relationship between the Mexican state and its Indigenous population. While past regimes had often overlooked or exploited Indigenous communities, Obregón and Calles understood the importance of incorporating them into the national project. Indigenista art became a way to acknowledge the historical injustices suffered by Indigenous people and to promote reconciliation and integration.
4. Celebrating Mexican Cultural Heritage:
Obregón and Calles' support for indigenista art stemmed from a desire to highlight the unique and vibrant cultural heritage of Mexico. By emphasizing pre-Hispanic imagery, traditions, and artistic styles, they sought to create a distinctly Mexican artistic identity, separate from European influences. This contributed to the development of a unique national artistic style that celebrated the country's diverse heritage.
How did their Support Manifest?
Their support was not merely symbolic; it involved concrete actions. They commissioned murals and paintings showcasing Indigenous themes, funded art schools and workshops, and promoted artists who embraced the indigenista style. These actions helped establish indigenismo as a dominant force in Mexican art and culture throughout the 1920s and beyond.
In conclusion, Obregón and Calles' support for indigenista art was a strategic move deeply rooted in their vision for a unified, progressive, and culturally rich Mexico. It represented a conscious effort to forge a national identity rooted in the country's indigenous heritage, creating a powerful symbol of national unity and reconciliation in the wake of the Mexican Revolution.
