This week, the Luxembourg Museum in Paris is showcasing a major exhibition on the Mexican surrealist painter Leonora Carrington, an artist ahead of her time who during her life addressed topics such as sisterhood, mental health, and migration. Born in England in 1917, Carrington spent much of her life in Mexico after fleeing the war in Europe in the 1940s, where she also passed away in 2011. She is regarded as one of the three most important artists in the Mexican art scene, alongside Frida Kahlo and the exiled Spanish artist Remedios Varo.

Carrington was romantically involved with Max Ernst, a pivotal figure within Dadaism and Surrealism. Her prolific body of work is known for its unique creatures, animal associations, metamorphoses, and rich esoteric and mythological references. As curator Carlos Martín notes, "She is one of those artists who were born before their time," emphasizing how her themes resonate with contemporary discussions around feminism, mental health, and alternative spiritualities. This exhibition aims not only to honor Carrington's work but also to reinvigorate the discourse around her significant contributions to the arts.

The exhibition's opening in Paris is particularly noteworthy as it aligns with modern movements advocating for greater recognition of women's contributions in the art world. By centering on Carrington's legacy, the show invites audiences to explore her complex narratives and consider the relevance of her themes today, potentially inspiring a new generation of artists and art enthusiasts. In doing so, it serves both as a retrospective of Carrington's influential career and as a commentary on the current status of women in the visual arts.