As the visionary Head of Development at Museo Tamayo, Mara Ortega Arena deeply aligns with the institution’s commitment to offering revolutionary contemporary artworks, as well as honoring—at every turn—the profound legacy of its founder, artist and luminary Rufino Tamayo. During this year’s spirited Mexico City Art Week, Museo Tamayo showcased four exhibitions shining light on both contemporary Mexican and international creatives, as well as hosted the most radiant celebration of the year, the museum’s annual gala.
Ortega Arena took a moment with Whitewall to reflect on safeguarding Ruffino Tamayo’s mission to make art accessible to a broad audience, enjoying a dazzling gala event where creative minds unite, and taking part in Mexico City’s vivacious cultural scene.
Courtesy of Mara Ortega Arena and Museo Tamayo.
Courtesy of Mara Ortega Arena and Museo Tamayo.
WHITEWALL: How would you describe the role of the institution within the contemporary art scene in Mexico?
MARA ORTEGA ARENA: Museo Tamayo plays a vital role in Mexico’s contemporary art scene as a bridge between Mexican and international contemporary artistic practices. We are dedicated to showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art while also preserving the legacy of Rufino Tamayo and promoting the work of both emerging and established Mexican artists.
“Museo Tamayo plays a vital role in Mexico’s contemporary art scene,”
Mara Ortega Arena
As an institution, we provide a platform for experimentation, dialogue, and cross-cultural exchange, allowing visitors to engage with contemporary issues through art. In this way, Museo Tamayo not only reflects the current state of art in Mexico but also helps shape its future by fostering innovation and collaboration. This emphasizes the museum’s significance in the broader art community and its commitment to fostering dialogue between local and global art scenes.
Museo Tamayo Highlights Contemporary Mexican and International Artists
Courtesy of Mara Ortega Arena and Museo Tamayo.
WW: What is on view at the Museo Tamayo this week? For those in town around the fairs, what should they make sure not to miss?
MOA: This week, Museo Tamayo is presenting four exhibitions that highlight both contemporary Mexican and international artists. One of the key exhibitions not to miss is “Luzia” by Brazilian artist Paulo Nazareth. This is his first solo exhibition in Mexico and spans decades of his work across a diverse range of media while focusing on how race affects the economy and how colonial ideas are still present in our contemporary world
Also, “In Conversation with the Cosmos” is the first comprehensive survey dedicated to the late Filipino artist David Medalla (1938–2020). The exhibition contextualizes the elusive and experimental practice of an artist whose pioneering work spanned kinetic, performance, and participatory art movements.
Visitors can also experience our collection of Rufino Tamayo’s work, which remains a cornerstone of the museum’s identity. We are currently showing an exhibition called “Tamayo: Mujeres” presenting a selection of graphic works that mostly belong to the lithographic portfolio that Rufino Tamayo made during 1969 at the Atelier Desjobert in Paris. Tamayo’s work in this selection of works not only invites us to recognize the multiple possibilities found in his practice but also to think about the specific imaginaries that have been built around the representation of women and their bodies throughout history.
And for those in town for the fairs and interested in emerging artists, I highly recommend checking out OTR”S MUND”S as it resonates deeply with the themes that capture in indeterminate ways experiences that might otherwise go unnoticed, introducing cultural phenomena that expand the historical function of museums through the views of up and coming artists.
Upholding Rufino Tamayo’s Desire to Foster Cross-Cultural Dialogue and Make Art Accessible
WW: How does the fact that the museum was founded by an artist, Rufino Tamayo, impact its mission?
MOA: Being founded by Rufino Tamayo shapes every aspect of the museum’s mission. Tamayo was passionate about creating a space that showcased both Mexican and international contemporary art, and his vision continues to guide us today. His desire to foster cross-cultural exchanges and make art accessible to a broad audience is something we strive to uphold in every exhibition, program, and acquisition.
“Being founded by Rufino Tamayo shapes every aspect of the museum’s mission,”
Mara Ortega Arena
WW: What are some of the museum’s current fundraising goals?
MOA: Our current fundraising efforts are focused on expanding our education and outreach programs. We want to ensure that more people, especially underserved communities, have access to the museum’s resources. We are also raising funds to support the conservation of our collection and to continue bringing in world-class exhibitions that enrich Mexico City’s cultural scene.
Museo Tamayo’s Annual Gala Unfolds as the Celebration of the Year
Courtesy of Mara Ortega Arena and Museo Tamayo.
WW: This week you hold your biggest fundraising event, the annual gala. Can you tell us about this event? What can attendees expect? Are there certain programs you’re looking to raise funds for in particular?
MOA: The annual gala is a highlight of the year for us. Attendees can expect a night of celebration, with an incredible dinner and a fun party as well the chance to see our exhibitions and connect with artists, collectors, patrons, and different creative minds. The gala allows us to expand the museum’s reach and impact.
“The gala allows us to expand the museum’s reach and impact,”
Mara Ortega Arena
WW: Where can visitors see the impact of funds raised for the museum?
MOA: Visitors can see the impact of our fundraising efforts in many ways—from our dynamic exhibitions and public programs to our educational outreach initiatives. For example, thanks to past fundraising efforts, we’ve been able to offer free workshops, guided tours, and special events that make art more accessible to all. Our conservation projects also ensure that Rufino Tamayo’s legacy and our broader collection remain well-preserved for future generations.
The Deeply Committed Art Collectors within Mexico City’s Vibrant Cultural Scene
Courtesy of Mara Ortega Arena and Museo Tamayo.
WW: How would you describe the emerging collectors of Mexico City? Is there a culture of patronage they ascribe to?
MOA: Emerging collectors in Mexico City are passionate, engaged, and often highly invested in supporting local artists. Many of them are also deeply committed to building relationships with institutions like Museo Tamayo. There’s a growing culture of patronage where collectors understand the value of supporting museums, not just through acquisitions, but also through philanthropic contributions that benefit the wider community.
“Emerging collectors in Mexico City are passionate, engaged, and often highly invested in supporting local artists,”
Mara Ortega Arena
WW: Outside of the museum, what are you looking forward to seeing and doing around the city this week?
MOA: Mexico City is always full of exciting things to see and do, especially around the fairs. I’m looking forward to visiting some of the independent galleries that are showcasing experimental work, as well as attending a few of the parties and events connected to the art fairs. Enjoying the city’s incredible cultural scene is always a highlight!
