Oil Paintings. Sketches. Ballet Costumes. And Of Course, Murals.

I've only known Diego Rivera through his mural work. This exhibition, at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art through January 2nd, is so much more. To my untrained eye, his portraits are more detailed and expressive. His murals seemed to generate their power from a group of people, but the portraits leverage the intimate personal expression of a single subject.

He was an artist with a strong social conscience, and wasn't afraid to speak truth to power. In fact, he often managed to have them pay him for it. I've shared a lot of photos below, but there is even more to enjoy at the exhibit.

This is Edsel Ford, president of Ford Motors during the 1930's when he gave a new car to Diego Rivera. (Even though neither Diego or wife Frida could drive.) In return Diego created this painting for Edsel from a publicity still. Edsel Ford got the better part of the bargain.

This one is by Diego's wife Frida Kahlo, a famous artist in her own right.

This sketch is massive, and depicts pneumatic workers in New York during the 1930s.

The man did enjoy his Calla Lillies.

A self-portrait of Diego Rivera. In 2010 this likeness was featured on Mexican currency honoring the artist. Which probably would've felt weird for this socialist.

A Rivera sketch showing costumes to be used in a ballet. Tobacco and bananas.

Rivera's "The Flower Carrier" has been seen many times. So here's a similar subject and pose titled, "The Scavenger."

This was enormous, dominating the gallery.

You entered, and exited, by going past the gift store. Well played.

The magnificent "Pan American Unity" mural created in 1940 on Treasure Island during the World's Fair. It measures a massive 22 feet x 74 feet.

If you don't have that kind of real estate in your home, no worries. The gift shop has diced it up into a 5-piece framed set.