Dolores Olmedo
María de los Dolores Olmedo Patiño y Suárez (1908–2002) was a passionate Mexican businesswoman and collector.
In 1924, Dolores met Diego Rivera at the Ministry of Public Education, and from that moment on, the bond between Dolores Olmedo and Diego Rivera was cemented by a shared passion for Mexican culture and art. Their relationship was not merely one of patronage but of close collaboration; she was the driving force behind La Casa Azul and the Anahuacalli Museum, and later went on to open her own museum.
“This new museum is meant to showcase my passion for collecting the work and worldview of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo […].”
Thanks to her unwavering conviction and patriotic spirit, Dolores Olmedo dedicated her life to establishing Mexico as an international leader in the arts and culture.
Her work not only promoted the preservation of Rivera’s works; it also contributed significantly to the promotion and recognition of Kahlo’s works, serving as a key factor in the creation of the modern icon we know today.
In the 1950s, Diego Rivera advised him to acquire ten of his works, as well as a Mayan stela, to start the “Oaxaca Collection,” which would later be supplemented with pre-Hispanic figures, Zapotec urns, and masks.
Dolores Olmedo was known as a staunch defender of Mexican traditions and customs. Since 1958, she promoted the creation of the traditional Day of the Dead altar to preserve the work of Mexican artisans. “For me, altars have been a lifelong tradition; I remember that my mother would set up a small altar in our home, which always included Mexican food and decorations.”
The Day of the Dead offerings displayed annually at the museum bring an ancient tradition to life and pay tribute to Dolores Olmedo, recognizing her role as a founder and promoter of Mexican art and culture.
Experience
01
The Treasury
Take a tour of the historic La Noria estate, surrounded by gardens and 16th-century architecture that welcome you into a world of art and culture.
02
The Legacy
Connect with the story and vision of Dolores Olmedo, whose passion made this space possible. Discover activities, exhibitions, and moments to enjoy and share.
03
The Collections
Get up close to the masterpieces of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, along with pre-Hispanic and folk art that showcase Mexico’s diversity and richness.