Latin American art is Western art history's neglected child. Most English-language surveys ignore it, an absurd oversight given the cosmopolitan nature of the region in the aftermath of Europe's colonization of Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. This collision of cultures gave rise to a spectacular array of unique, complex, and provocative paintings, sculpture, and architecture. Barnitz, professor of modern Latin American art at the University of Texas at Austin, redresses this dereliction by defining major regional movements over the course of the twentieth century, beginning with the surge in urban growth that served as a catalyst for modernismo, a 'blend of symbolist and postimpressionist tendencies.' Next comes the era known best to outsiders, the avant-garde of the 1920s, including the Mexican mural painters. Barnitz discusses Latin American surrealism; analyzes pre-Columbian, African, Christian, and communist influences; and parses the many powerful styles created by Latin American artists to express their humanistic political viewpoints during a century of turmoil, oppression, and violence. An exciting and invaluable work of synthesis and interpretation, Barnitz's grand survey greatly enhances understanding of the extraordinary cultural mix that infuses Latin American art with its soulfulness and vigor. -- Donna Seaman Booklist With ease and agility, Barnitz navigates an entire century's worth of art produced in the varied regions and cultures of Latin America. ARTnews