New Spain
1500 -1820

Theories & Interpretations

• Art in New Spain (colonial Mexico and parts of Central & South America under Spanish rule) blended European, Indigenious, and African influences; it was deeply tied to religion, colonial power, and cross-cultural exchanges

• Art played a crucial role in colonial identity, religion, and power. Virgin of Guadalupe became symbol of Mexican identity. Casta paintings reflect colonial racial ideologies

• Art was used as a tool for Religious Conversion: Hybrid Religious Imagery -Catholic saints and biblical figures were depicted with Indigenous elements to appeal to the local populations

• Grand churches, altarpieces, and portaits symbolize Spanish dominance while lavish materials (gold, silver) reflected wealth and authority

• Casta paintings reinforced racial hierarchy and justified colonial rule

• Trade between Mexico, Spain, China, and the Phillippines influenced Spanish art; Asian motifs appeared in colonial churches and paintings

Style Characteristics

• characterized by blending European & Indigenous traditions. European: Spanish and Italian Renaissance techniques (perspective/ chiaroscuro) Indigenous: symbolism, colors, materials

• Mixed-race (Mestizo) artists adapted European styles to local traditions

• Devotional art - Catholic imagery (Virgin Mary, saints, biblical scenes)

• Indigenous preference for bold, flat colors (especially in murals and manuscripts), strong outlines and less concern for depth or realistic perspective

• Intense Ornamentation & Baroque Influence with the use of highly decorated and intricate chruch interiors, use of gold-leaf covered altarepieces, dramatic and emotional figures, stong use of light and shadow