The well known artist and writer, Dr. Atl was born today, October 3, 1875, in Guadalajara. His interests were widely varied...vocanology, geology, philosophy, history, politics, etc. His interest in art began early and after studying art at the Academy of San Carlos he received a scholarship from the Mexican government to study in Europe. While in Europe he studied philosophy and law at the University of Rome, art lectures in Paris and also worked with the Socialist Party and the Avanti newspaper in Italy.
In 1902 he decided to rename himself in an effort to uniquely identify his "independent personality". He was re-christened with Doctor (of philosophy) Atl - "the wonderful water of his joy to live" (atl means water in Nahuatli).
Upon his return to Mexico Dr. Atl began working with and fostering the creation of murals and public art. Landscapes are the primary theme of his paintings. Due to his fascination with volcanoes, many of his paintings include mountains with active volcanoes.
Dr. Atl won many awards for his painting as well as his literary writing. He was named director of the Academy San Carlos following the Revolution. He died in 1964, in Mexico City.
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