Academy of San Carlos

The Academy of San Carlos, established in Mexico City in 1783, was a royal art academy founded by the Spanish king Charles III. It aimed to standardize artistic practices in the colonies by bringing in Spanish instructors for architecture, sculpture, and painting. Initially, it promoted the Neoclassical style, emphasizing balanced and rational forms, with artists like Manuel Tolsá being prominent figures. After Mexico gained independence, the academy reopened in 1843, favoring a more realistic style, though European artists were often preferred for teaching positions. The academy played a significant role in shaping the art landscape of Mexico, influencing styles from Neoclassicism to Realism and later incorporating indigenous themes into its curriculum.123