This extraordinarily diverse exhibition explores the dynamic relationship between contemporary and indigenous art in Latin America. It shows how modern artists have crossed the centuries to become accomplices with their pre-colombian forefathers.

In 1921, David Alfaro Siqueiros, a revolutionary, soldier, writer and one of the major Mexican painters of the twentieth century, famously declared that modern artists in America should embrace the constructive vitality of pre-colombian art. He also warned them to avoid at all costs literal, nostalgic or picturesque reconstructions of the past. Latin American Art: Contexts and Accomplices explores these concerns.

Nadín Ospina confronts these ideas head-on by recreating ancient stone idols in the form of modern icons such as Mickey Mouse or Homer Simpson. Rufino Tamayo, by contrast, creates a vivid portrait gallery of types and characters from the ancient past.

Although we think of ‘abstract art’ as a modern term, the formal, abstract, geometric and constructive qualities of the carving, textiles and architecture of pre-colombian civilisations have been source and inspiration for many artists.

Latin American Art: Contexts and Accomplices also shows how contemporary Latin American artists have drawn on the imagery and ideas of pre-colombian and popular art. Today, pottery, tiles, cloth, tin, wood and found objects, materials commonly associated with craft practices, are as much the province of the avant-garde as of the local artist. At this exhibition, you will be able to see for yourself how indigenous textile traditions re-echo in contemporary work. You will find works which juxtapose rich fabrics with popular dolls in strikingly geometric compositions.

Special events: an introductory talk and tour at the Sainsbury Centre with Professor Valerie Fraser, co-curator of the exhibition and Co-Director of the University of Essex Collection of Latin American Art will take place on Tuesday 10 February 2004.