In 2025, the art world will commemorate a significant milestone — the 100th anniversary of the birth of Fernando de Szyszlo, a towering figure in Latin American art. To honor this occasion, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Lima (MAC Lima) will host an exhibition titled “Szyszlo. 100 años,” showcasing the artist’s profound contributions from June 25 to August 3, 2025. This event not only pays tribute to Szyszlo’s artistic legacy but also celebrates his enduring influence on Peruvian and Latin American art.
Born on July 5, 1925, in Lima, Fernando de Szyszlo emerged as one of the pioneering forces of abstract art in Peru. His formal education began at the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, before he further refined his craft in Europe. Szyszlo’s artistic vision was deeply intertwined with the Andean worldview, allowing him to meld indigenous themes and aesthetics with contemporary styles.
Szyszlo’s artistic journey is marked by his innovative exploration of various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and film. His works often reflect a lyrical abstraction that connects with pre-Columbian heritage, invoking the richness of Peruvian history and culture. One of his notable series, “Apu Inca Atawallpaman,” is a poignant reflection on indigenous identity and the history of Peru, first exhibited in 1963.
His collaborative spirit was evident in his relationships with other cultural giants. In 1955, he co-founded the Instituto de Arte Contemporáneo (IAC) alongside influential figures such as Manuel Mujica Gallo and José María Arguedas. Szyszlo also dedicated a significant portion of his career to teaching, inspiring future generations of artists from 1956 to 1977 at his alma mater, the PUCP.
The upcoming exhibition at MAC Lima is more than just a display of Szyszlo’s works; it is a curated journey through his artistic exploration from 1946 to 2003. Under the expert guidance of curator Augusto Del Valle Cárdenas, the exhibition will feature ten selected pieces from MAC Lima’s collection, including paintings, a sculpture, a print, and a 16mm film. Del Valle, a notable figure in the Peruvian art scene, brings his extensive background in art history and curatorial practices to ensure that Szyszlo’s work is portrayed in a rich and engaging narrative.
This exhibition is a key component of a broader cultural initiative that includes other events and exhibits celebrating the centennial of Szyszlo. These include the bibliographic exhibition “Szyszlo Centenario,” running from June 18 to August 28, 2025, at the Centro Cultural Inca Garcilaso, and the print exhibition “Visiones del Hidalgo: Szyszlo frente al Quijote,” hosted by the Pancho Fierro Municipal Gallery from July 5 to August 13, 2025.
Szyszlo’s artistic vision and dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on not just Peru, but the entire Latin American art landscape. By merging elements of his cultural heritage with modern abstraction, he crafted a unique vocabulary that continues to resonate in contemporary art. Through the commemorative exhibition and related initiatives, the memory and impact of Fernando de Szyszlo will undoubtedly inspire future generations to explore, understand, and appreciate the richness of their cultural identities.
As we approach the centennial celebration, let us remember not only the art of Szyszlo but also the spirit of innovation and cultural dialogue that he championed throughout his life.
Photo credits: Property of the museum.
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