* Mexican history and culture: Rivera was deeply committed to depicting the struggles and triumphs of the Mexican people. He created monumental murals showcasing scenes from the Mexican Revolution, pre-Columbian civilizations, and the country's social and economic life.
* Examples: "The History of Mexico" (National Palace, Mexico City), "The Detroit Industry Murals" (Detroit Institute of Arts), "The Epic of the Mexican People" (National Palace, Mexico City)
* The lives of the working class: Rivera was a communist and a vocal advocate for social justice. He often depicted the labor movements and the everyday lives of workers, emphasizing their dignity and strength.
* Examples: "The Detroit Industry Murals" (Detroit Institute of Arts), "The Man at the Crossroads" (Rockefeller Center, New York City)
* Contemporary events: Rivera occasionally addressed current events in his work, often with a critical and political lens.
* Example: "The Man at the Crossroads" (Rockefeller Center, New York City) - Originally, this mural was supposed to depict a utopian future, but Rivera included an image of Lenin, which was deemed too controversial and ultimately led to the mural's destruction.
* Religious themes: Rivera was interested in exploring the intersection of spirituality and politics.
* Examples: "The Conquest of Mexico" (National Palace, Mexico City), "The Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Central" (National Palace, Mexico City)
It's important to note that Rivera's work often combined multiple themes, creating complex and multi-layered narratives. His murals were not merely decorative but served as powerful statements about history, culture, and politics.