Francisco Zuniga

Francisco Zuniga (1912-1998)

Francisco Zuniga was a Mexican sculptor, printmaker, draughtsman and teacher. Francisco Zuniga studied sculpture under his father, Manuel María Zuniga, in San José, Costa Rica, and after his arrival in Mexico City in 1936 at the Escuela de Talla Directa under the direction of Guillermo Ruíz (1895–1964) and Oliverio Martínez.

His encounter with Aztec sculpture was a major influence for his work, as well as the work of other sculptors, such as Auguste Rodin, Aristide Maillol and Henry Moore, whose work, like his, was based primarily on the human body.  Throughout his career Zuniga was especially devoted to the female form. Zuniga’s art reflects a love and respect for Central American people and traditions

He has been the recipient of numerous international prizes and awards. His work is exhibited throughout the world and can be found in the permanent collections of many museums including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Los Angeles County Museum and the Phoenix Art Museum.