Although Cinco de Mayo has become synonymous with rowdy parties, there are other ways to celebrate Mexico today and beyond in NYC. These exhibitions shed light on the country’s culture, from cinematography and the arts to architecture and design.
‘Latin America in Construction: Architecture 1955-1980′
The MoMA provides an overview of architectural creativity in Mexico, Cuba and beyond during the mid-20th century. Through architectural drawings, photographs, film clips and more, the exhibition looks at the innovative approaches to urban design developed during this time. Now through July 19, admission $25 adults, $18 seniors, $14 students, free for children 16 and under; 11 W. 53rd St., 212-708-9400
‘Under the Mexican Sky’
Gabriel Figueroa spoke about creating “una imágen mexicana” (a Mexican image), helping to shape Mexican cultural identity in the mid-20th century. El Museo del Barrio explores the work of the late, influential Mexican cinematographer through photographs, posters and documents drawn from his archives. The show also features artists and filmmakers who emulate Figueroa’s distinctive style. Now through June 27, admission $9 adults, $5 students and seniors; 1230 Fifth Ave., 212-831-7272
‘Moderno: Design for Living in Brazil, Mexico and Venezuela, 1940-1978’
The Americas Society explores how the three Latin American countries, sheltered from the destruction of World War II, experienced economic growth from the 1940s through to the 1950s and modernized. Latin American design in particular is explored, with an eclectic group of materials, from ceramics and metalwork to textiles and furniture, on display. Now through May 16 (gallery closed Sunday-Tuesday), FREE; 680 Park Ave., 212-249-8950
‘Frida Kahlo: Art, Garden, Life’
This upcoming exhibit at The New York Botanical Garden will feature paintings and self-portraits that demonstrate the artist’s engagement with nature and her native country of Mexico. May 16-Nov. 1, admission $20-$25 adults, $18-$22 students and seniors, $8-$10 children ages 2-12, free for children under 2; 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx, 718-817-8700
