This week, I treated myself to an artist date, taking inspiration from Julia Cameron’s concept of self-discovery. My destination? The Art Gallery of South Australia, where an exhibition titled ‘Frida and Diego: Love and Revolution’ awaited. Little did I know that this exhibition would surpass my expectations, delving not only into the art and life of Frida Kahlo but also introducing me to other post-revolutionary Mexican artists and igniting new passions within me.
While I had previously heard snippets about Frida Kahlo and her incredible story, my knowledge remained relatively superficial. I admired her as a forceful female painter, recognizing that women artists often don’t receive the same acclaim as their male counterparts. However, I had not truly delved into her art nor grasped the depth of her personal journey.
Stepping into the exhibition, I experienced a complete eye-opener.
Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo was undeniably extraordinary. Despite grappling with profound health issues that must have caused her pain throughout her life, she remained astonishingly prolific in her artistic output. As someone who has been known to procrastinate when it comes to painting, I felt a pang of shame when comparing my feeble excuses to her ability to persist in the face of physical challenges.
Out of her impressive collection of 143 paintings, 55 were self-portraits—an astounding testament to her introspection and her unyielding desire to explore her own identity. Examining her self-portraits alongside the many photographs of Frida displayed in the exhibition, I was struck by how she seemed to emphasize her unique perception of herself. While we often remember her as the woman with the unibrow, it was intriguing to see that this didn’t translate into the photographs. It led me to reflect on the fascinating way we perceive ourselves compared to how others see us.
The exhibition didn’t stop at paintings; it offered a glimpse into Frida’s world through drawings and concept sketches. It was enthralling to witness how she contemplated the subjects she intended to paint.
Additionally, Mexican costumes adorned the space, their vibrant colors and intricate designs springing to life before my eyes. Seeing them in person provided an entirely different perspective compared to mere photographs and paintings—they radiated an undeniable vibrancy.
Frida Kahlo’s relationship with Diego Rivera, her partner in art and in life, unfolded with its own share of tumultuous moments. Their union was marred by Diego’s affair with Frida’s younger sister—a chapter that strained their connection. Interestingly, Frida first married Diego when she was in her early twenties, while he was already in his forties.
Diego Rivera
Diego Rivera, an artist in his own right, was known for his monumental mural paintings that celebrated the essence and significance of native Mexicans. His works, deeply rooted in politics, reflected the cultural atmosphere of Mexico during that era.
Mexican Modernist Painters
While the exhibition primarily focused on Frida and Diego, it also introduced me to three other intriguing painters: Gunther Gerzso, Emilio Baz Viaud, and Rufino Tamayo. Of particular interest to me is Gunther Gerzso, a versatile artist who dabbled in painting, design, directing, and screenwriting. His journey from surrealism to abstraction captivated my attention, drawing me to the pieces he created during his abstract period. Emilio Baz Viaud and Rufino Tamayo also captured my curiosity, and I eagerly anticipate diving into their stories and artwork as my exploration continues.
If you find yourself within reach of this exhibition, I wholeheartedly recommend seizing the opportunity to experience it firsthand. Centered around the tale of the Mexican revolution and its aftermath, as well as the profound love shared by Frida and Diego, the exhibition showcases the Gelman Collection—a compilation without a permanent home, but one that travels across the globe, sharing its treasures with art enthusiasts worldwide.
So keep an eye out for this captivating exhibition. It promises a journey of art, love, revolution, and the enduring power of creativity.