The National Gallery in London is proud to present the first monographic exhibition in the UK dedicated to José María Velasco (1840–1912), Mexico’s esteemed 19th-century painter. Titled José María Velasco: A View of Mexico, this groundbreaking exhibition will be held from 29 March to 17 August 2025 at the prestigious Sunley Room. Please note that there will be an admission charge for this extraordinary showcase of artistic brilliance.
This landmark event marks the debut of a Latin American artist’s exhibition at the National Gallery and aligns with the 200th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the UK and Mexico. José María Velasco’s renowned body of work primarily focuses on the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Valle de México, encapsulating the essence of Mexico’s evolution amidst significant societal transformations.
Despite his acclaim within Mexico, José María Velasco’s international recognition has waned over time. This exhibition aims to reintroduce Velasco to a global audience, shedding light on his multidimensional genius beyond painting. Not only was Velasco a masterful artist but also a botanist, naturalist, and geologist, blending artistry with scientific inquiry to create captivating and insightful compositions.
Velasco’s paintings transcend mere aesthetics, delving into the intersection of cultures, ecological conservation, and industrial progress. By juxtaposing Velasco’s works with pieces from the National Gallery’s collection, such as Édouard Manet’s The Execution of Maximilian, visitors are prompted to contemplate themes of colonialism, industrialization, and humanity’s impact on nature—a discourse as relevant today as it was in the 19th century.
Accompanying the exhibition, a comprehensive catalogue will offer unparalleled insight into Velasco’s artistry, featuring critical essays and catalogue entries by esteemed scholars from Britain, Mexico, and the United States. This scholarly endeavor seeks to establish a foundation for future research, ensuring Velasco’s legacy endures across borders and generations.
Curated by Dexter Dalwood and Daniel Sobrino Ralston, the exhibition not only celebrates Velasco’s artistic prowess but also contributes to the National Gallery’s commitment to showcasing diverse artistic narratives. This exhibition follows a successful series of showcases introducing British audiences to non-European art, enriching cultural dialogues and fostering a deeper appreciation for global creativity.
In the words of Dexter Dalwood, Velasco’s paintings epitomize a harmonious blend of European landscape traditions and Mexican vitality, transcending geographical boundaries to offer a nuanced perspective of the natural world. Daniel Sobrino Ralston echoes this sentiment, emphasizing Velasco’s dual identity as an artist and scientist whose legacy continues to inspire and captivate.
Stay tuned for an unforgettable journey through the evocative landscapes of José María Velasco, a visionary artist ahead of his time.
The National Gallery in London is proud to present the first monographic exhibition in the UK dedicated to José María Velasco (1840–1912), Mexico’s esteemed 19th-century painter. Titled José María Velasco: A View of Mexico, this groundbreaking exhibition will be held from 29 March to 17 August 2025 at the prestigious Sunley Room. Please note that there will be an admission charge for this extraordinary showcase of artistic brilliance.
This landmark event marks the debut of a Latin American artist’s exhibition at the National Gallery and aligns with the 200th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the UK and Mexico. José María Velasco’s renowned body of work primarily focuses on the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Valle de México, encapsulating the essence of Mexico’s evolution amidst significant societal transformations.
Despite his acclaim within Mexico, José María Velasco’s international recognition has waned over time. This exhibition aims to reintroduce Velasco to a global audience, shedding light on his multidimensional genius beyond painting. Not only was Velasco a masterful artist but also a botanist, naturalist, and geologist, blending artistry with scientific inquiry to create captivating and insightful compositions.
Velasco’s paintings transcend mere aesthetics, delving into the intersection of cultures, ecological conservation, and industrial progress. By juxtaposing Velasco’s works with pieces from the National Gallery’s collection, such as Édouard Manet’s The Execution of Maximilian, visitors are prompted to contemplate themes of colonialism, industrialization, and humanity’s impact on nature—a discourse as relevant today as it was in the 19th century.
Accompanying the exhibition, a comprehensive catalogue will offer unparalleled insight into Velasco’s artistry, featuring critical essays and catalogue entries by esteemed scholars from Britain, Mexico, and the United States. This scholarly endeavor seeks to establish a foundation for future research, ensuring Velasco’s legacy endures across borders and generations.
Curated by Dexter Dalwood and Daniel Sobrino Ralston, the exhibition not only celebrates Velasco’s artistic prowess but also contributes to the National Gallery’s commitment to showcasing diverse artistic narratives. This exhibition follows a successful series of showcases introducing British audiences to non-European art, enriching cultural dialogues and fostering a deeper appreciation for global creativity.
In the words of Dexter Dalwood, Velasco’s paintings epitomize a harmonious blend of European landscape traditions and Mexican vitality, transcending geographical boundaries to offer a nuanced perspective of the natural world. Daniel Sobrino Ralston echoes this sentiment, emphasizing Velasco’s dual identity as an artist and scientist whose legacy continues to inspire and captivate.
Stay tuned for an unforgettable journey through the evocative landscapes of José María Velasco, a visionary artist ahead of his time and find more at the National Gallery website
Inage credit:
X12243
José María Velasco
Vista de la fábrica de hilados La Carolina (Puebla)
1887
Oil on canvas, 76.6 × 107.8 cm
National Gallery of Prague
© National Gallery of Prague / photo by Andrea Rývová