Minneapolis Review

The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is set to present an exhibition on José María Velasco, a prominent 19th-century Mexican painter, from September 27, 2025, to January 4, 2026. The exhibition, titled "José María Velasco: A View of Mexico," will feature Velasco's renowned works, which depict the Valle de México's natural beauty alongside the impacts of rapid industrialization and social change.

Velasco's artworks, considered national treasures in Mexico, are primarily housed in Mexican museums, such as the National Museum of Art in Mexico City. This exhibition will be a significant event for the Twin Cities' Mexican American community, offering a glimpse into Velasco's rarely-seen masterpieces.

"Velasco holds a place in Mexican art history comparable to Albert Bierstadt or Frederic Church in the United States," said Valeria Piccoli, Mia’s Ken and Linda Cutler Chair of the Arts of the Americas and Curator of Latin American Art. The exhibition aims to expand the appreciation and understanding of Central and South American artists among Mia's audience.

President of the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Katie Luber, emphasized the exhibition's significance: “This exhibition reflects our mission to connect global art histories with our diverse local audiences. Velasco’s remarkable landscapes not only celebrate Mexico’s natural beauty but also spark meaningful conversations about the shared experiences of change, resilience, and cultural identity.”

Visitors will be able to compare Velasco’s landscapes with those of American artists such as Bierstadt, Moran, and Cropsey in neighboring galleries, sparking dialogue on themes like colonialism, industrialization, and ecological change.

An accompanying scholarly catalogue will provide the first English monographic study of Velasco, serving as a key research resource for scholars worldwide. It will feature essays from scholars in Mexico, Britain, and the United States.

The exhibition is organized in partnership with the National Gallery, London, where it will be on display from March 29 through August 17, 2025. The comprehensive presentation further underscores the exhibition's importance in art history.

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