MoLAA, the Museum of Latin American Art, reopened last weekend, after extensive redevelopment by Mexican architect Manuel Rosen:
This post celebrates the only, and long needed, museum of its kind in North America -- with plenty of pix and pixels.
The museum comes from the private collection of Dr. Gumbiner, who developed an interest for Latin American art, and structured it so that every Latin American country would be represented.
And they are, from political and cultural struggle, to the chores, hardships and celebrations of everyday life.
The permanent collection is mind-blowing, showcasing artists from Mexico, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico.
The references to early 20th Century international movements such as Post-Impressionism, Russian Constructivism, and Italian Futurism, are inescapable -- as well as Old Masters like Goya and Rembrandt. All blended with a quest for Indian identity. 
We came out of the show on our ignorant knees, overwhelmed by its beauty, wanting to know more, and to share the experience.
Besides the permanent collection, there is a temporary exhibit called La Presencia, about Latin American art originating from the United States -- from early 20th Century political statements to pop, kinetic, and optical art. A must see.
Above: Frida and Diego mannequins take a rest at the coffee shop. photos LA Frog: - artwork MoLAA
