Four centuries of political and social repression fermented the tumultuous Mexican revolution of 1910-1920. It gave a new lease of life to its people. Born again was pride in ethnic identity; an awakening of cultural sensibilities rising phoenix-like from an impassioned movement on the streets. An artistic renaissance thus evolved through the painting of murals, with a verve and energy never before experienced in Mexican history. For the painters of the times, it was a celebration of life. For generations ahead, a heritage to be cherished.

The exhibition of Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo and Mexican Modernism at the SFMOMA, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, was a rare experience, to say the least. Collected through nearly half a century by Jacques and Natasha Gelman, German and Czech immigrants settled in Mexico, their fortunes made from film productions helped support a considerable league of early 20th century Mexican artists.