COBAES Marks 44th Anniversary with Major International Tribute to Mexican Muralism

Culiacán, Sinaloa – As part of its 44th anniversary celebrations, the Colegio de Bachilleres del Estado de Sinaloa (COBAES) will host two major cultural events this Wednesday, September 3rd, showcasing the enduring legacy of Mexican muralism through an international lens.

In a press conference led by Sinaloan muralist Ernesto Ríos Rocha and Marlene Soto López, coordinator of the Centros Culturales del Bachillerato, the institution announced a program that brings together artistic heritage, education, and global collaboration. Representing Edson Emilio Ibarra Gutiérrez, Director of Cultural Outreach, the speakers emphasized the importance of commemorating 100 years of Mexican muralism—an artistic movement that has shaped both national identity and the global art scene.

One of the highlights will be the talk “Siqueiros and Muralistic Life,” presented by David Constantino Rodríguez Ochoa, great-grandson of legendary muralist David Alfaro Siqueiros. Rodríguez Ochoa, who also serves as curator of Siqueiros’ artistic legacy, will offer unique insights into the muralist’s life, work, and revolutionary vision. The talk will take place in person at the Rosales High School Cultural Center and be broadcast virtually to students across the state’s five High School Cultural Centers.

Complementing the conference is the opening of the collective art exhibition “Icons of Mexican Muralism,” curated from the private collection of master artist Ernesto Ríos Rocha. Featuring nearly 60 certified original works—ranging from paintings and drawings to engravings and lithographs—the exhibition includes pieces by towering figures of Mexican art such as Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, Rufino Tamayo, María Izquierdo, Leonora Carrington, Rodolfo Morales, and Alfredo Ramos Martínez, among others.

The oldest work in the collection dates back to 1898–1899 and was created by Ramos Martínez, who was the mentor of Siqueiros. The show also features rare and unpublished photographs of iconic artists including Frida Kahlo, Siqueiros, and Rivera, adding a documentary dimension to the visual journey.

This exhibition not only commemorates the centennial of Mexican muralism but also reflects COBAES’ commitment to cultural education and artistic outreach. The events are supported by the Organización Mundial de Artistas Independientes (OMAI) and the World Federation of Cultural Managers—two international organizations founded by Ríos Rocha himself.

“Mexican muralism is a living legacy,” said Ríos Rocha. “It is a cultural treasure that continues to inspire new generations across the world. Through these events, COBAES reaffirms its role as a guardian of art, memory, and education.”

Both the talk and the exhibition are open to the public, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the heritage and global influence of Mexican art.

Event Details:

📅Date: Wednesday, September 3

📍Location: Rosales High School Cultural Center, Culiacán, Sinaloa

💻Streaming: Available to all five COBAES High School Cultural Centers