Academy Art Museum

Under the Mexican Sky: A Revolution in Modern Photography

May 23-October 11, 2026

More About the Exhibition

Under the Mexican Sky: A Revolution in Modern Photography brings together iconic works by Edward Weston, Tina Modotti, Helen Levitt, Manuel Álvarez Bravo, and Henri Cartier-Bresson. Through still lifes and street photography, the exhibition captures everyday life in Mexico during a period of major artistic change.

Following the Mexican Revolution, Mexico City became a hub for artists from around the world. Many of the photographers featured here lived and worked in close collaboration, influencing one another’s styles. During this time, Weston shifted toward sharply focused, modern compositions, while Modotti created politically driven images that shaped the next generation, including Álvarez Bravo.

Together, these works highlight a moment when photography evolved through shared ideas, experimentation, and a deep engagement with place. The exhibition offers a window into Mexico’s culture and daily life as seen through the lenses of artists working nearly a century ago.

Organized by art2art Circulating Exhibitions, all works are from the collection of Michael Mattis and Judith Hochberg.

Learn more: Under the Mexican Sky: A Revolution in Modern Photography - Academy Art Museum