The Museo de Arte e Historia de Guanajuato, one of the major cultural landmarks in the Bajío region, surprises us with a unique exhibition that celebrates the personal and artistic bond of two great figures in Mexican art and literature: Joy Laville and Jorge Ibargüengoitia. Under the title "Jorge en Joy," this exhibition explores the dialogue between Ibargüengoitia's sharp wit and Laville’s gentle yet powerful brushstrokes. Together, they shared a life and left an artistic legacy as intimate as it is impactful.

Joy Laville, originally from Britain, found her home in Mexico and, through her art, a way to communicate the depth of her visual perception. Her works are recognized for their delicate use of color and form, evoking a sense of peace and melancholy—qualities that are not only present in her art but also in the atmosphere she built in her life with Jorge Ibargüengoitia. In contrast, Ibargüengoitia was known for his satirical, incisive style, portraying Mexican society from a critical perspective full of humor and a touch of sarcasm.

Over the years, Laville and Ibargüengoitia complemented each other's worldviews. She, in quiet reflection and with a contemplative aesthetic, captured landscapes and scenes of tranquility that seem to invite us to pause; he, on the other hand, challenged norms and explored the ironies of everyday life in Mexico. This exhibition allows viewers to see how their styles merge and reflect each other, offering a unique window into their shared world.

The "Jorge en Joy" exhibition is not a typical art or literary show; it is an invitation to delve into the universe of a couple who not only shared a life together but also a critical and poetic vision of the world. Through Laville's works and Ibargüengoitia's texts, visitors can observe how literature complements visual art, and how both disciplines mutually enrich the viewer's experience.

Alongside paintings and illustrations, the show includes excerpts from Ibargüengoitia's writings that offer a unique view of his often humorous and critical thoughts. This combination makes the exhibition accessible to both visual art enthusiasts and those who enjoy Mexican literature.

The curation of "Jorge en Joy" is designed to create an immersive experience that goes beyond simply looking at paintings or reading words. The arrangement of Laville’s works alongside Ibargüengoitia’s texts allows visitors to feel the harmony and contrast in their perspectives. This carefully planned approach reflects both the nuances of their relationship and the values they shared, showing how both artists transformed their experiences into works of art.

The exhibition will be open to the public from September 18, 2024, to February 16, 2025.