Pre-Columbian Art, on the Horizon of Modernity: Presences and Discourses in Museums Devoted to Latin American Artists

Abstract

For American countries, a major role in the process of constructing their own modernity was played by pre-Columbian art. This role was due, in part, to the intrinsic value it was deemed to hold, but also to its power to inspire in the reformulation of signs and languages from both architectural monuments and all manner of sculptures, ceramics, or textiles. The process of recording and safeguarding this type of work in public and private collections –particularly since the 19th Century– led to a passion among numerous modern artists for adding pieces to their own collections, having acquired them on the open market. These works coexisted alongside their own art and pieces by other contemporary creators in their homes and studios. There were also artists who, while not personally acquiring this type of object, did convey a fascination with pre-Columbian artistry through their work. Over time, these collections were opened to the public in the form of museums.