An Enigmatic Exhibition Unveiled at the National Museum of Art
Curator David Eduardo Caliz Manjarrez introduces the captivating exhibition “Bajo el signo de Saturno: Adivinación en el arte,” which delves into the realms of astrology, divination, spiritism, and cosmic terror through artistic expressions. The exhibition showcases over 200 pieces, ranging from the esoteric works of Francisco I. Madero to André Breton and Virginio López Velarde’s natal chart, featuring artists like Goya, Durero, Tamayo, Carrington, Téllez Toledo, and more.
A Glimpse into the Esoteric World
Caliz Manjarrez explains, “While many may question their blood type, no one will doubt their zodiac sign. It’s part of the collective unconscious within our social dynamics.” He walks visitors through four distinct sections, each exploring metaphysical possibilities and their profound connection to art.
Key Pieces in the Exhibition
- Joseph Leitsch’s 1911 oil portrait of Francisco I. Madero, accompanied by contemporary publications satirizing the former Mexican president’s spiritist beliefs.
- Juan Téllez Toledo’s “Las espiritistas” (1903), Leonora Carrington’s “The seance” (Sesión espiritista, 1998), Teresa Morán’s “Quiromántica” (1950), and Saturnino Herrán’s enigmatic “La mujer X, retrato de Virginia Fábregas” (1917).
- Six aguafuertes from Goya’s “Los Caprichos” (ca. 1823) and Rufino Tamayo’s “El iluminado” (1976).
Archetypal Interpretations through Jungian Lens
Caliz Manjarrez discusses the archetypal readings of works by Alberto Durero, Baltasar Echave, and Roberto Montenegro through Carl Gustav Jung’s perspective. He highlights the tarot as an example, with its 22 arcanos representing universal symbols like the father, mother, death, or wise man.
Anticipating a Thriving Exhibition
The curator concludes his tour, hoping for a successful exhibition that appeals to the public’s fascination with astrology over blood types. The MNAC aims to keep “Bajo el signo de Saturno: Adivinación en el arte” open until February 2026, inviting visitors to explore the depths of esoteric art and its cultural significance.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the exhibition about? “Bajo el signo de Saturno: Adivinación en el arte” explores astrology, divination, spiritism, and cosmic terror through artistic expressions.
- Who are the featured artists? The exhibition includes works by Francisco I. Madero, André Breton, Virginio López Velarde, Goya, Durero, Tamayo, Carrington, Téllez Toledo, and many more.
- What is the significance of this exhibition? The MNAC aims to engage the public’s interest in esoteric art and its cultural importance, keeping the exhibition open until February 2026.
Tacuba 8, Centro Histórico, Alcaldía Cuauhtémoc
Open until February 2026
Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
