* Early Exposure: Rivera was born into an artistic family. His father was a successful mining engineer with a passion for photography, and his mother, a devout Catholic, was drawn to religious art. This early exposure likely sparked his interest in visual arts.
* Formal Education: Rivera received formal training at the San Carlos Academy of Fine Arts in Mexico City. This institution emphasized traditional European techniques and aesthetics, laying the foundation for his artistic skills.
* Social Consciousness: Rivera was deeply influenced by the social and political turmoil of Mexico in the early 20th century. He witnessed the Mexican Revolution firsthand and was drawn to the struggles of the working class. This instilled in him a desire to use art as a tool for social commentary and change.
* European Influences: After traveling to Europe, Rivera was exposed to the avant-garde art movements of the time, particularly cubism and post-impressionism. He incorporated these influences into his own style, creating a unique blend of European and Mexican aesthetics.
* Nationalism: Rivera was a fervent believer in Mexican national identity and culture. He believed in celebrating indigenous traditions and incorporating them into his artwork, creating a distinct Mexican art form.
Therefore, Diego Rivera's decision to become an artist was driven by a combination of factors: his family background, formal education, social consciousness, artistic influences, and nationalism. These elements combined to create a unique and powerful artistic voice that would forever change the landscape of Mexican and international art.