By Chiara Salvadé. Cover image by Antonella Ramos.
When we consider the pillars of art and the great female figures in contemporary history, we cannot ignore the name of Frida Kahlo. She was not only a highly talented and sensitive artist but also a courageous and still relevant feminist icon. Her life was far from simple, as it was filled with struggles and pain that made her journey difficult. Yet, her spirit remained strong, and her determination to maintain a unique and often controversial identity from a young age was extraordinary. Despite physical and emotional suffering, she persevered in her art, painting and rising time and time again.
On the 70th anniversary of her death, a new book titled Frida: Woman, Artist, Icon, written by Chiara Pasqualetti Johnson, offers a fresh perspective on Frida Kahlo’s life, exploring the woman behind the icon. Published by White Star, the book explores Frida’s artistic career as well as her most significant personal relationships, from her connection with Diego Rivera to her interactions with notable figures such as André Breton and Tina Modotti. The story is complemented by over 100 photographs from the era, providing a glimpse into the Mexican neighbourhoods of the early 20th century, along with Frida’s most famous paintings, which vividly depict her lived experiences and unwavering passion.
Frida Kahlo’s Relationships: Love, Art, and Revolution
Frida carefully crafted her identity from childhood, as her birth coincided with the start of the Mexican Revolution in 1910. Even as a teenager, she recognised the importance of taking a stand on the events of her time. She devoted herself to her studies, discovered revolutionary movements, and embraced her unique nature, which was different from her sisters—being more masculine and provocative. She consistently opposed historical dictatorships and held a deep love for the traditions of her country. She soon joined the Communist Party, and it was there that she experienced her first love while also living with the aftermath of the tragic accident that forever changed her life. Despite the challenges of her disability, she fought tirelessly until the end to support the revolution, “the only true reason for living.”
The Spell of the Occultadora: The Art of Concealing
For a long time, the people around her fascinated and influenced her tastes and political views. Her marriage to Diego Rivera began as a collaboration that reignited Frida’s sense of loyalty to her homeland. She expressed her love for Mexico through her photographs by wearing traditional outfits, which also served to conceal the physical flaws that were a source of deep pain for her. When the two moved to the United States, she discovered a new world. During those years, Frida interacted with many artists, all of whom were captivated by her. She made close friends in San Francisco, New York, and Detroit and piqued the interest of American society through her elegant and mysterious mask of Mexican pride.
The Broken Column: The Impact of Pain on Frida’s Art
As a child, she contracted polio, which had lasting effects on her health. To make matters worse, she had a terrible accident when at the age of 18, which required numerous surgeries and left her immobile for long periods. Despite these challenges, she decorated the corsets she wore during her convalescence to escape loneliness. Her illness did not stop her from receiving many visitors and solidifying her political role. In 1953, she attended the inauguration of a solo exhibition dedicated to her in Mexico City, turning her recovery into a celebration. During the same period, her leg was amputated, and the following year, after a few lucid moments where she painted with difficulty, the great Frida Kahlo passed away.
The Dove and the Elephant: Frida Kahlo’s Great Love
Frida’s interest in the great Mexican muralist Diego Rivera marked the beginning of a relationship of love and total devotion. The two artists married in 1929, bound not only by art but also by political ideology. However, after ten years, they divorced. They were in an open relationship when Diego crossed a line by betraying Frida with her beloved sister, Cristina. After just two years of separation, they reunited and found affection again,building their relationship on mutual respect. Despite the betrayal, the years spent with Diego in the United States and his constant support played a crucial role in both Frida’s career as a painter and in her battle against pain.
Casa Azul: The Home That Nurtured a Myth
Frida Kahlo spent her childhood in Casa Azul, a peaceful sanctuary built by her father, Guillermo. She lived thereuntil she was 22, when she married Diego. In the 1940s, after reuniting with Diego, she returned to Casa Azul and transformed it into a gathering place for renowned artists, Nobel Prize winners, and friends seeking political asylum. The house, decorated with the artwork of the Rivera couple, featured blue walls and Mexican-style decor with pre-Columbian icons to welcome guests. It was a house full of life. Even after Frida’s death, Diego maintained the house, which continues to attract curious tourists eager to walk the same steps as one of the most fascinating women in history.
Fridamania, An Immortal Legacy of Frida Kahlo
The 21st century has brought Frida Kahlo and the powerful messages conveyed by her art to the entire world.She has become a source of inspiration reflected in all forms of expression, from the most famous fashion shows of the 2000s to films about her life; anyone watching them can see themselves in her as a person constantly battling everyday struggles. Frida remains an enduring legend, a symbol in the fight against patriarchy, an icon of queer pride, and an inspiration for artists of all kinds. It’s not uncommon to encounter her deep gaze while walking past murals in many cities around the world.
