Mis Sobrinas (My Neices) by María Izquierdo (Interpretation and Analysis)

Mis Sobrinas
Source: Newington-Cropsey Cultural Studies Center

I recently read an article about Mexican artist María Izquierdo that labelled her “the painter who Frida Kahlo pushed To obscurity.” While I thought that the description was a bit harsh, it’s undoubtably true. Although Izquierdo’s work is tremendously important in the artistic story of Mexico, the Modernist movement, and Latin America more generally, almost no one knows her name these days. Izquierdo held controversial political and social beliefs that alienated her from contemporary artists, leading her to be excluded from the ranks of “great” Mexican artists (like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo).

Izquierdo used her art to celebrate Mexican culture. She sought to situate the mestizo Mexican culture in the wider realm of human experience, arguing that the unique blend of cultures and traditions found in Mexico was as important as Western culture on the world stage. She employed fantastical imagery that referenced folklore, tradition, and religion. Izquierdo was interested in the idea of authenticity, seeking to portray the lives and world of everyday Mexicans. As writer Elena Poniatowska explained, "María Izquierdo represented Mexicanness better than Frida Kahlo, not in her folklore but in her essence."

Although she would not have identified as a Surrealist, Izquierdo used a Surrealistic, avant-garde approach to making art. Her painting techniques were inspired by her travels while her subject matter was almost exclusively Mexican.

In Mis Sobrinas (which translates to My Nieces), for instance, Izquierdo celebrates the Mexican family and the bonds that make up society. Izquierdo herself was deeply committed to her family and felt a strong sense of obligation and responsibility towards them. She frequently depicted herself with family members, reinforcing these bonds through art. In Mis Sobrinas depicts herself flanked by her two nieces in front of a stylized background of foliage. As scholar and writer Cristina La Porta notes, the composition of the piece references contemporary portrait photography, noting extraordinary similarities between this painting and photos of Izquierdo with other family members. However, in translating this scene to paint, Izquierdo gave herself a chance to inject her own experience and feelings into the piece.

At its core, however, Mis Sobrinas reflects a certain sense of identity. Here, Izquierdo celebrates the strength of Mexican girls and women and the strength of family bonds. The painting is a reflection of Izquierdo’s pride in where she comes from and where she is going, a statement of support for the next generation as well as an ode to Izquierdo’s heritage.

Disclaimer: I’m not an art historian or an expert on this topic. The above is my opinion, based on my interpretation of my foreknowledge of art and history. If I’ve done any additional research, I’ll note it above.