Frida Kahlo through the Eyes of Other Artists

Today, Frida Kahlo is known around the world, and artists have always been drawn to her image. This exhibition includes some examples of the ways in which Frida has been an icon of the art world, portrayed by several artists.

Mexico City 9 (Museo Frida Kahlo) (2007) by Spencer TunickColección Blaisten

Frida: From Artist to Iconic Image

Frida Kahlo has become an icon of battle-hardened women, modernity, and "mexicanidad" (Mexican identity). Since Kahlo's time, many artists have attempted to pay tribute to her.

Girl with Doll (1943) by Rosa RolandaColección Blaisten

Rosa Rolanda, the American dancer, choreographer, and painter, was one of Frida's close friends.

In this painting she depicts her as a doll.

Frida (1955) by Diego RiveraColección Blaisten

Diego Rivera painted his beloved Frida as a heart with blood spilling from its veins. The blood becomes plants whose roots resemble the map of Mexico, the land that Frida loved and where she was born.

Frida (1997) by Carlos GuerreroColección Blaisten

Frida's unibrow is a constant feature in his tributes.

Frida (1997) by Carlos GuerreroColección Blaisten

The necklace of thorns, symbolizing perpetual torture, recalls her tragic life.

The Visit of Frida y Diego (1982) by Francisco OchoaColección Blaisten

Francisco Ochoa painted Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and María Felix. This composition is an allegory of "mexicanidad" (Mexican identity): a nation of artists flanked by powerful, intelligent, and influential women.

Frida (2004) by Carlos GuerreroColección Blaisten

Saint Frida (2000) by Carlos GuerreroColección Blaisten

Carlos Guerrero portrays her as a saint: a cult icon.

Hommage to Frida Kahlo (1987/1987) by Rodrigo PimentelColección Blaisten

Frida is also depicted in an allusion to the symbol of the Communist Party, as she was a member and a staunch defender of the movement.

Credits: Story

Texts and selection of work: Renata Blaisten

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
Explore more

Interested in Visual arts?

Get updates with your personalized Culture Weekly

You are all set!

Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.

Home
Discover
Play
Nearby
Favorites