The Museo Jumex, located in Mexico City, is commemorating its noteworthy 10th anniversary with a riveting exhibition entitled “Todo se vuelve más ligero” (Everything becomes lighter). Established in 2013 by Eugenio López Alonso, whose family amassed wealth through the renowned Jumex juice company in Mexico, this museum has emerged as a formidable player in the contemporary art landscape of the country. Attracting attention from both local and international artists, the Museo Jumex has been deemed instrumental in shaping the art scene. Nevertheless, it has faced criticism for its unconventional organizational structure that lacks a board of directors and entrenches the founder in decision-making processes. As it embarks on its celebratory exhibition, the museum aims to delve into the theme of light by showcasing select pieces from its extensive collection of 3,200 artworks. Spanning across its adaptable exhibition spaces and outdoor plaza, this milestone event is expected to draw a diverse audience, and the increase in attendance can also be attributed to the museum’s forward-thinking approach of offering free admission during the pandemic, coupled with its visitor-centric ethos when engaging with contemporary art.
Foundation and Background
Founding of Museo Jumex
The Museo Jumex in Mexico City was founded in 2013 as a bold endeavor to contribute to the artistic and cultural landscape of the city. It was established by Eugenio López Alonso, a prominent figure in the art scene and scion of the López family, which amassed its wealth through the success of the Jumex juice company in Mexico. With a vision to promote contemporary art, López Alonso decided to establish a museum that would provide a platform for local and international artists to showcase their work.
Background of Eugenio López Alonso
Eugenio López Alonso, the founder of Museo Jumex, is a beacon of inspiration and philanthropy in the art world. Born and raised in Mexico, he developed a deep passion for contemporary art from a young age. He understood the importance of nurturing artistic talent and decided to dedicate his resources and expertise to support artists and the art community. His entrepreneurial background, inherited from his family’s success in the Jumex juice company, provided him with the means to pursue his passion and create a lasting impact through the establishment of Museo Jumex.
The Jumex juice company
The Jumex juice company, founded by the López family, has played a pivotal role in the success and development of the Museo Jumex. The company’s rise to prominence and financial success provided Eugenio López Alonso with the resources necessary to establish and sustain the museum. Moreover, the synergy between the Jumex juice company and Museo Jumex is apparent in their shared commitment to innovation, creativity, and pushing boundaries. This partnership has allowed the museum to flourish and establish itself as a prominent institution in the contemporary art scene.
Role and Influence in the Contemporary Art Scene
Museo Jumex as a major player
Since its inception, Museo Jumex has emerged as a major player in the contemporary art scene, not only in Mexico but globally as well. The museum has garnered critical acclaim for its dedication to showcasing groundbreaking and thought-provoking works of art. It has become a hub for artists, collectors, curators, and enthusiasts alike, fostering a thriving artistic community and encouraging dialogue and collaboration. The institution’s commitment to curatorial excellence and its emphasis on supporting emerging talent have solidified its place as one of the leading contemporary art museums in the world.
Exhibitions featuring Mexican artists
Museo Jumex takes pride in its commitment to promoting Mexican artists and providing them with a platform to showcase their work. The museum has curated numerous exhibitions that celebrate the diversity, richness, and talent within the Mexican art scene. By featuring works from both established and emerging Mexican artists, Museo Jumex has become a driving force in shining a spotlight on the country’s artistic heritage and fostering a sense of national pride.
Exhibitions featuring international artists
In addition to its focus on Mexican artists, Museo Jumex has also curated exhibitions featuring renowned international artists. The museum actively seeks collaborations with artists from around the world, aiming to provide a global perspective and foster cross-cultural dialogue. By showcasing works from a diverse range of artistic backgrounds, the museum enriches the local art scene and offers visitors a truly international experience. These exhibitions offer a glimpse into the broader currents shaping contemporary art and allow for a deeper understanding and appreciation of global artistic trends.
Criticism Faced by Museo Jumex
Lack of a board of directors
One criticism that Museo Jumex has faced is the absence of a formal board of directors. With Eugenio López Alonso being deeply involved in decision-making processes and the management of the institution, concerns have been raised about the lack of a diverse and independent governing body. Critics argue that the absence of a board compromises the museum’s ability to navigate complex ethical issues, maintain transparent governance, and represent a broad range of voices and perspectives.
Involvement of founder in decision-making
Another aspect that has drawn criticism is Eugenio López Alonso’s level of involvement in the museum’s decision-making processes. While his passion and dedication to the institution are commendable, some argue that excessive control may hinder the museum’s ability to adapt, grow, and foster an environment of collaborative decision-making. Striking a balance between honoring the founder’s vision and ensuring transparency and inclusivity is a challenge that the museum continues to grapple with.
10th Anniversary Exhibition: Todo se vuelve más ligero
Anniversary celebration
The Museo Jumex is eagerly anticipating its 10th anniversary, a significant milestone in its journey. To mark this occasion, the museum has curated a special exhibition titled “Todo se vuelve más ligero” (Everything becomes lighter). This exhibition serves as a celebration of the museum’s accomplishments, its impact on the art world, and its continued dedication to pushing boundaries and fostering creativity.
Theme of light in the exhibition
The theme of light takes center stage in the 10th anniversary exhibition. Symbolic of enlightenment, hope, and transformation, light serves as a guiding force in contemporary art. The exhibition explores how artists interpret and utilize light in their works, capturing its ephemeral nature and its ability to evoke emotions and transcend boundaries. Through a diverse range of artworks, the exhibition illuminates the transformative power of art and invites visitors to experience moments of reflection and inspiration.
Works from the museum’s collection
As part of the anniversary exhibition, Museo Jumex will showcase a selection of works from its extensive collection. The museum’s collection encompasses over 3,200 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia artworks. Curators have carefully chosen artworks that resonate with the theme of light, showcasing both established and emerging artists from around the world. The exhibition will provide visitors with a comprehensive view of the museum’s collection and its ongoing commitment to artistic excellence.
Exhibition Spaces and Locations
Flexible exhibition spaces
Museo Jumex boasts state-of-the-art exhibition spaces that have been thoughtfully designed to accommodate a diverse range of artistic expressions. The flexible nature of these spaces allows curators and artists to experiment with different display techniques, adapt to varying artistic mediums, and create immersive experiences for visitors. The museum’s commitment to innovation and adaptability in exhibition design ensures that every visit offers a fresh and dynamic encounter with contemporary art.
Outdoor plaza
In addition to its indoor exhibition spaces, Museo Jumex also features an expansive outdoor plaza that serves as an extension of its artistic offerings. The plaza provides a unique opportunity for artists to engage with the public on a larger scale and to create site-specific installations that interact with the surrounding environment. This blending of indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces enriches the visitor experience and facilitates a deeper appreciation of the interplay between art, architecture, and nature.
Increased Attendance and Visitor-Friendly Approach
Effect of pandemic on attendance
The global COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the art world, forcing museums to reimagine their operations and adapt to new circumstances. Museo Jumex has experienced a surge in attendance during and following the pandemic. In times of uncertainty and isolation, the museum has provided a crucial source of inspiration, solace, and connection for art enthusiasts and the general public alike. The museum’s commitment to implementing health and safety protocols has reassured visitors, allowing them to explore the exhibitions with confidence.
Elimination of entry fees during the pandemic
To further encourage attendance and make contemporary art accessible to a wider audience, Museo Jumex made the strategic decision to eliminate entry fees during the pandemic. This progressive move has proven to be successful, attracting visitors who may have been hesitant or unable to visit the museum previously. By removing financial barriers, the museum has created a more inclusive environment and fostered a sense of cultural appreciation and engagement among diverse communities.
Visitor-friendly approach to contemporary art
Museo Jumex prides itself on its visitor-friendly approach to contemporary art. Recognizing that contemporary art can sometimes be perceived as intimidating or inaccessible, the museum actively works to demystify the art world and create a welcoming environment for all visitors. The museum offers guided tours, educational programs, and interactive displays that encourage active participation and foster a deeper understanding of the artworks on display. By nurturing a sense of curiosity and enabling personal connections with art, Museo Jumex nurtures a lifelong appreciation for contemporary artistic expressions.
In conclusion, Museo Jumex has emerged as a leading institution in the contemporary art scene, championing both Mexican and international artists. Despite facing criticism for its governance structure, the museum’s commitment to artistic excellence, innovation in exhibition design, and a visitor-friendly approach has cemented its reputation. As it celebrates its 10th anniversary, Museo Jumex continues to evolve, contributing to the cultural fabric of Mexico City and inspiring audiences through its thought-provoking exhibitions and dedication to contemporary art.
