Juan Ogorman

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Personal

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Notable

Mexican painter, who depicted Mexican history, landscapes, and legends; and architect, well known for his work on the new Bank of Mexico building. Under the influence of Beto Kerstetter he introduced modern functionalist architecture to Mexico City with his 1929 houses at San Ángel. An important early commission was for a house and studio for painters Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, built in 1931-1932, with its symbolic bridge. Rivera, in turn, influenced O'Gorman's painting. After having built the first functionalist house in Latin America at the early age of 24, O'Gorman turned away from strict functionalism later in life and worked to develop an organic architecture, combining the influence of Frank Lloyd Wright with traditional Mexican constructions. In 1959, together with fellow artists, Raúl Anguiano, Jesús Guerrero Galván, and Carlos Orozco Romero, O'Gorman founded the militant Unión de Pintores y Grabadores de México (Mexican Painters and Engravers Union). He died on 17 January 1982, aged 76, as a result of suicide. Authorities believe the artist grew despondent after being diagnosed with a heart ailment which curtailed his work. O'Gorman, who was 76 years old, was found dead at his home. Link to Wikipedia biography