Fisherman

1956

Fisherman, 1956. Diego Rivera (Mexican, 1886–1957). Tempera and black crayon on paper; image: 63 x 48.2 cm (24 13/16 x 19 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Stephen E. Myers 2021.110 © Banco de México Diego Rivera Frida Kahlo Museums Trust, Mexico, D.F. / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York Diego Rivera created this drawing during the last year of his life. While living on the Pacific coast of Mexico, the artist was inspired by local fishermen. Here, a man appears in profile before his fishing net with landscape extending behind him. Although the fisherman is not identified, his direct gaze suggests the dignity that Rivera saw in his work, and its importance to Mexico. Diego Rivera made this work while recuperating from cancer treatment at a friend’s house on the coast of Acapulco.