November 23, 1924, was Jose Reyes Meza's birthday. He was a Mexican painter, illustrator and theater set designer, born in Tampico, Tamaulipas. His mother was only 16 at his birth and Reyes lived with her in Altamira on the Gulf Coast in the Huasteca region (home to the native people Huastec). The cultural aspects, the music, etc. influenced his art later. He did eventually go to live with his father, in who was a metal engraver and jeweler, but Jose turned to theater and painting instead. He was granted a scholarship to the Academy San Carlos and studied painting, later enrolling in classes in archeology and history as well.
In addition to his canvas paintings, Reyes created murals and is sometimes referred to being part of the Mexican Muralist Movement, along with Diego Rivera, Jose Clemente Orozco, etc. His themes reflect the life of the common Mexican people. He has stated that his art echoes all of his life experiences, including music. Reyes also attempted to reinstate still life painting in Mexico. He was a founder of the Salon de la Plastica Mexicana and has exhibited his work in the US as well as Mexico.
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