Mexico and Modern Printmaking: A Revolution in the Graphic Arts, 1920 to 1950

BY John Ittmann

 Recommended by: Edgar Reyes, 2026 In-House Resident.

“This book has been formative in my understanding of the role art played in Mexico post revolution. Also has provided me with more historical context and shared cultural exchanges that influenced creatives during this period.”

Book Description: Mexico witnessed an exciting revival of printmaking alongside its better-known public mural program in the decades after the 1910–20 revolution. Major artists such as Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, José Clemente Orozco, and Rufino Tamayo produced prints that furthered the social and political reforms of the revolution and helped develop a uniquely Mexican cultural identity. This groundbreaking book is the first to undertake an in-depth examination of these prints, the vital contributions Mexico’s printmakers made to international modern art, and their influence on coming generations of artists.