Burial Urn, a 600–850 CE, Earthenware, post-fire paint by Artist: K’iché (Maya). This is one of the works that will feature prominently in the first dedicated Latin American Art Galleries at the Walters Art Museum

Excitement is brewing across Maryland as the Walters Art Museum reveals plans for its first dedicated Latin American Art Galleries. Discover the vibrant cultures and artistic expressions that await!

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

BALTIMORE, MD —The Walters Art Museum is set to launch Latin American Art/Arte Latinoamericano, its inaugural permanent exhibition dedicated to Latin American art, on May 17, 2025. This monumental event marks a significant milestone in the museum’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural representation. The exhibition will showcase a rich tapestry of 200 works that span over 40 cultures and 4,000 years of history. In addition to historical artifacts, Latin American Art will feature contemporary pieces, providing a holistic view of Latin American artistry.

Renovation and Expansion of Exhibition Spaces

In preparation for this significant exhibition, the Walters Art Museum is renovating 3,300 square feet of its historic 1909 Charles Street building. This marks the first extensive renovation and reinstallation of the galleries in nearly 40 years. The design of the revamped spaces will facilitate a deep cultural, historical, and social exploration of Indigenous Art from the Americas. These enhancements will transform the museum into a vibrant hub for dialogue on culture. It will also reflect the diverse narratives that comprise Latin American heritage.

Julia Marciari-Alexander, the Andrea B. and John H. Laporte Director of the museum emphasizes the importance of representation: “For far too long, the voices of Latino artists have been absent from the museum’s offerings.” With a 77% increase in Baltimore’s Latino population between 2010 and 2020, the museum’s initiatives aim to resonate with the local community and celebrate the multifaceted contributions of Latino artists.

Exploring the Richness of Latin American Cultures

The curatorial approach arranges the exhibition thematically and geographically, focusing on crucial themes related to the natural world and the diverse materials sourced from the Americas. Visitors will experience a plethora of artifacts, including:

1. – Ancient ceramics and earthenware
2. – Gold and jade ornaments from Colombia and Central America
3. – A monumental Mexica (Aztec) statue of Macuilxochitl, the patron god of music
4. – Colonial-era paintings, such as that of Saint Rose of Lima
5. – Maya ceramic burial urns featuring the unique Maya blue colorant
6. – Elaborately crafted Andean drinking vessels

In addition to these artifacts, interactive elements will enrich the visitor experience. Community members will contribute video and audio content to give credence to the collection. Also, the tactile stations will feature 3D-printed Maya glyphs, and the fragrance of copal incense will increase engagement and understanding of the art.

Contemporary Works: A Dialogue Between Past and Present

Latin American Art / Arte Latinoamericano will include contemporary works that provide context and contrast to the historic pieces. Recent acquisitions by living artists, including Jessy DeSantis, Melissa Foss, and Kukuli Velarde, are thoughtfully integrated into the exhibition. These contemporary pieces address critical themes like migration, identity, and gender expression. They foster a dynamic conversation between ancient and modern artistic practices. The regular rotation of these works ensures an ongoing dialogue that will evolve.

Latin American Art Galleries: Thematic Insights

At its core, the exhibition explores how various cultures within Latin America perceive the natural world as being imbued with a living spirit. Ellen Hoobler, the William B. Ziff, Jr. Curator of Art of the Americas, articulates the exhibition’s essence. “Latin Americans are not a monolith; however, each culture shares the concept that a vital essence unites all beings,” she said. This underlying theme will resonate throughout the Latin American art galleries. It will invite visitors to reflect on the interconnectedness of humanity, nature, and artistic expression.

One of the standout features of Latin American Art/Arte Latinoamericano is the provision of bilingual didactic materials. This initiative marks a first for the Walters Art Museum, aiming to make the exhibition accessible to a broader audience. By offering materials in both English and Spanish, the museum seeks to foster an inclusive environment where all visitors can engage with the art on display.

The Walters Art Museum has actively engaged local Latin American communities through advisory groups and focus sessions. These collaborative efforts have been integral to shaping the exhibition. But more importantly, it ensures that the exhibition authentically represents the diverse voices within the community. The museum’s previous initiatives, like Ethiopia at the Crossroads and Across Asia: Arts of Asia and the Islamic World, showcase its commitment to minority communities. These programs celebrate and explore the contributions of these communities in the Baltimore area.

Future Directions of the Latin American Art Galleries

There is already excitement across the board as Walters Art Museum prepares to unveil the Latin American art galleries. The institution sees it as an opportunity to become a leading destination for experiencing art from the Americas. The galleries, it hopes, will deepen visitors’ understanding of Latin American cultures. Above all, encourage ongoing dialogues about shared humanity and artistic expression.

As enthusiasm for the project grows, the Walters Art Museum is inviting the community to be part of this transformative journey. The museum is already celebrating the opening of Latin American Art / Arte Latinoamericano, even though it is still ten months before opening. It eagerly looks forward to welcoming visitors to engage with the profound Latin American narratives and artistic legacies.