Leopoldo Méndez, 1902-1969, was an important printmaker, painter and muralist primarily known as the principal founder and leader of the Taller de Gráfica Popular (TGP) in Mexico in 1937. This association of graphic artists created politically-charged images depicting the oppressive conditions of the peasant class, the atrocities of war, and the social injustices created by a corrupt capitalism. Their works ultimately served the progressive movements of Mexican reform. Méndez was highly regarded in his lifetime, winning many honors and prizes, and was given important exhibitions of his work early in his career.

Under Méndez's influence this group of artists adapted their political images to the shifting political landscape of Mexico. The TPG sic also attracted support from patrons in the United States. As a result, the TPG sic lost some of its focus and popularity toward the end of the decade, shifting from work that addressed Mexican social issues to creating images which celebrated the history and society of the indigenous peoples.

from Costa, Women of the Taller de Gráfica Popular: Selections from the Charles S. Hayes Collection of 20th Century Mexican Graphics (Notre Dame, 2010)