Protected works by famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and her compatriots are to return to her country of birth following controversy over their relocation to Spain.
The works in the Gelman Santander Collection, which are subject to special cultural heritage protection, are to return to their country of origin in 2028, Spain's Banco Santander Foundation said.
The collection of 160 artworks was purchased in 2023 by the Zambrano family, one of Mexico’s wealthiest business families. The Spanish bank Banco Santander has been managing the works since January.
The collection includes around 30 works by artists such as Kahlo (1907-54), Diego Rivera (1886-1957) and David Alfaro Siqueiros (1896-1974), all subject an export ban.
The Spanish curators of the collection said after a current exhibition in Mexico, the works would be permanently housed in a new cultural centre in Santander in northern Spain, roiling the Mexican art community.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also spoke on the issue, insisting the collection must return to Mexico.
After some contradictory statements, Spain's Culture Ministry was forced to explain its position and said it would return the works in 2028, though doubts remained.
The Santander foundation has now also commented, promising to comply with Mexican laws at all times. The works under special protection are to be returned in two years’ time.
In Mexico, legislation protects the works of certain artists under strict conditions. Any works declared as national art monuments may not leave the country permanently, even if they are owned by private collectors. Among these are paintings Kahlo created in her home country.
The law seeks to prevent the country’s cultural heritage from being permanently taken abroad. Art may be included in temporary exhibitions abroad, but the works must return after a specified period.
Some of the Gelman Santander Collection is currently on display in Mexico for the first time in almost 20 years.
The show, which opened in February at the Museum of Modern Art in the Mexican capital, has recently been extended by around two months until July to allow people to visit who are in Mexico for the FIFA World Cup. Works on show include Kahlo's works such as Self-Portrait With Necklace and Diego in My Thoughts. - dpa
