On December 3, a pioneering exhibition of Latin American portraiture will premiere at El Museo del Barrio.

Reflecting the diversity of cultures and common influences represented in Latin American and Latino art, “Retratos: 20,000 Years of Latin American Portraits” is the first comprehensive exhibition of Latin American portraits, bringing many significant works to the United States for the first time.

The exhibition will feature approximately 125 paintings and sculptures representing more than 15 countries in Latin America as well as the United States. Culled from the holdings of leading museums, the exhibition will also draw from private collections in Latin America.

Among the artists represented in the exhibition will be Frida Kahlo (Mexican), Jose Campeche (Puerto Rican), Diego Rivera (Mexican), Fernando Botero (Colombian), Jose Gil de Castro (Peruvian), David Alfaro Siqueiros (Mexican), Rufino Tamayo (Mexican), Lasar Segall (Lithuanian-born Brazilian), Oswaldo Guayasamin (Ecuadorian) and Armando Reveron (Venezuelan).

The exhibition is the centerpiece of a major project that will allow visitors to explore the geography and cultures of Latin America. Supported by committees of Latino leadership and a team of scholarly advisors, it will be accompanied by innovative education programs including guided tours, hands-on and educator workshops, family days and a symposium on March 12 at El Museo del Barrio.

Following its debut at El Museo del Barrio, “Retratos” will continue on a two-year national tour, making stops in San Diego, Miami, Washington, D.C., and San Antonio.

The museum is in the Heckscher Building, 1230 Fifth Avenue. For information, 212-831-72727.