“Paintings from the Thoma Collection” Exhibition

McAllen, Tx – The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) announces the upcoming exhibition, “Paintings from Spanish America (1600-1800) from the Carl and Marilynn Thoma Foundation Collection,” which will be on view from February 8, 2025, to May 25, 2025. This exhibition features 16 masterworks that present a comprehensive panorama of artistic creativity from Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Bolivia, and Cuba, dating from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Co-Curated by Suzanne Stratton-Pruitt and Verónica Muñoz-Nájar, the exhibition examines the dynamic character of viceregal art, illustrating how European artistic traditions were transformed and reinterpreted in Spanish Colonial America or the American Colonies of Spain. Visitors will encounter a collection of oil paintings on canvas and copper, showcasing devotional iconography and intricate details that defined the period. These works, which once adorned churches, convents, and private homes, reflect the cultural identity of their regions and portray complex allegories, unique styles, and narratives of lineage and status.

The exhibition is on loan from the Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation, a grantmaking and art collecting organization committed to supporting pivotal initiatives in the arts. The Foundation’s Arts of the Spanish Americas collection includes more than 210 paintings, making it one of the most significant private collections of its kind. “Paintings of Spanish America (1600-1800)” is also supported by Dr. Katherine Moore McAllen, Associate Professor, School of Art and Design, Director, Center for Latin American Arts and Marialice Shary Shivers Chair in Fine Arts at UTRGV.

IMAS will host an exclusive Member Opening Reception on February 6, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. This complimentary, after-hours event is offered as a special acknowledgment of IMAS Members’ continued support. Pre-registration is encouraged. Members may bring one non-member guest per membership, while additional Member guests may attend for a $10 admission fee. Memberships are available for purchase online or at the door.

An Art History Roundtable titled “Dialogues of Collecting and Display: Art of the Spanish Americas in the Rio Grande Valley” will take place on February 21, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The roundtable will feature prominent experts, including Dr. Verónica Muñoz Nájar, Dr. Katherine McAllen, Dr. Tom Cummins, Dr. Rosario Granados, Dr. Kristopher Driggers, Dr. Adam Jasienski, and Dr. Carmen Fernández-Salvador. Participants will discuss the historical and cultural significance of viceregal art, its modern appreciation, and its relevance to cultural institutions like IMAS.

The museum invites the community to explore the rich history and artistry of Spanish America through this exceptional exhibition. Additional information about the exhibition, events, or membership is available at www.imasonline.org .

About the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS)
Located in the Rio Grande Valley, the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) inspires visitors of all ages to explore the world of art and science. Through its diverse exhibitions, collections, and educational programs, IMAS empowers learners to pursue their passions and discover new interests. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a Smithsonian Affiliate, IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen, Texas. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information on admission, events, and programs, visit theimasonline.org or call (956) 681-2800.