The Atlas Obscura Podcast · Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Helena Scobedo, a significant figure in Mexican art, was known for championing experimental and international art forms during her tenure at UNAM's Museum of Arts and Sciences. Despite her contributions, the controversy surrounding the demolition of Juan O'Gorman's Casa Cueva continues to overshadow aspects of her career, prompting reflection on her choices and potential regrets.
“She was really an artist who's pushing forward art modes that are coming from outside of Mexico. She's not afraid to engage with that and she's also really supporting the local art scene.”
“I like to think knowing what she later knew that she would not have done this later on in her life. And I like to think that she saw the error of her ways and regretted it. And as her career develops, you see her talking about this episode, less and less. It clearly becomes a taboo.”
“So if you ever find yourself in Mexico City, stop by to see Helena Scobedo's sculpture, Puertas al Viento, or at Museo Casa Estudio to see Juan O'Gorman's functionalist house and the home studios he built for Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.”