The Mexican Consulate and the Mexican Cultural Institute of New York attended an exclusive edition of #OpenDoors at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG), as part of The Orchid Show: Mexican Modernism. This special edition was inspired by the architecture and colors of renowned Mexican architect Luis Barragán.
As part of this annual celebration of all things orchid, the exhibition spotlighted the vibrant setting of Mexico through The Orchid Show: Mexican Modernism. Visitors were invited to embark on a journey where the fusion of tradition and contemporary artistry took center stage amid awe-inspiring displays of orchids. Guests wandered through lush landscapes brought into vivid relief with thousands of flowers that showcased Mexico’s diverse ecosystems. Set among bold, multicolored designs inspired by the work of Luis Barragán, attendees experienced a paradise of tropical beauty—without ever leaving the Bronx.
About luis barragán:
Luis Barragán (1902–1988) was a self-taught Mexican architect originally trained as an engineer. Born in Guadalajara, he was influenced by his travels through Europe and North Africa, particularly by the architecture of the Mediterranean and the teachings of Le Corbusier. He began his career within the regionalist Escuela Tapatía movement before relocating to Mexico City in 1936, where he lived and worked until his death.
Barragán’s architecture blends minimalist forms with rich color, texture, and a deep connection to nature. He described himself as a landscape architect and believed that gardens should be designed with the same care as homes to nurture beauty and spiritual values. Serenity, he claimed, was essential in any true work of architecture.
His deeply spiritual and mystical approach is evident in works like the Capuchinas Sacramentarias chapel. He also designed numerous equestrian structures, incorporating the same aesthetic ideals. Barragán’s philosophy and style influenced generations of architects worldwide.
When accepting the Pritzker Prize, he emphasized the importance of spirituality, beauty, and wonder in architecture, lamenting their absence in modern discourse. For Barragán, the essence of architecture lay in “the art of seeing”—a vision guided not only by reason but by inspiration and emotion.