Sodaro South Wing

Emigdio Vasquez: Retrospective 50

December 13, 2025 – May 31, 2026

EXHIBITION CLOSED

Frequently Asked Questions About the Exhibition

What is the Emigdio Vasquez: Retrospective 50 Exhibition?

The art of Emigdio Vasquez (1939-2014) returns to the Hilbert Museum in what marks the largest and most comprehensive collection of his works ever exhibited, spanning more than four decades of creative achievement by the acclaimed artist from Orange. Many of the works in the show have never been shown in public before.

What Artworks and Themes Are Featured in the Retrospective?

Featuring more than 50 oil paintings drawn from the collections of Vasquez’s family and other devoted collectors, the exhibition traces his evolution from the expressive portraits of the mid-1960s to the profound social narratives of his later years. The paintings range from portraits and still lifes to engaging views of Vasqeuz’s Orange barrio community to powerful scenes honoring Mexican American history and culture. Together, these paintings reflect not only his artistic mastery but also the enduring spirit that connects his legacy across generations.

Is There an Accompanying Book for the Emigdio Vasquez Exhibition?

A new book on Vasquez’s life and legacy, written by his daughter, Rosemary Vasquez Tuthill, will be available at the museum to accompany this exhibition.