Frida Kahlo: In her own image presents an intimate view of one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. This exclusive exhibition features Kahlo’s personal belongings, clothing, make-up, accessories, and medical items, on loan from the Museo Frida Kahlo in Mexico for the first time in Australia.
Sealed in a bathroom for 50 years after Kahlo’s death, in her cherished family home, La Casa Azul, this precious collection’s rediscovery sheds new light on Kahlo’s carefully crafted appearance.
In her vibrant clothing, dramatic use of make-up and adornment, and richly decorated medical protheses, Kahlo constructed a captivating public image which addressed geopolitical issues of her time, cultural and social identity, and her own body. Following childhood polio and a near fatal accident at the age of 18, Kahlo boldly addressed her disabilities through her dress and on the canvas.
Frida Kahlo: In her own image illuminates the resonant dialogues between Kahlo’s clothing and styling, her performance in photography, and her drawing and painting, including her iconic self-portraits.
Through photographs, documents, and personal mementoes, the exhibition considers the personal, political, philosophical, and artistic influences which shaped Kahlo’s distinctive world view and informed her groundbreaking creative output. The exhibition also examines Kahlo’s ascent to become one of the most heavily mythologised and revered cult figures of our time, and her profound legacy in art and society.
Frida Kahlo: In her own image was conceptualised and curated by Circe Henestrosa, fashion curator and Head of the School of Fashion at LASALLE College of the Arts Singapore, with advising curator Gannit Ankori, PhD, and Henry and Lois Foster, Director and Chief Curator, Rose Art Museum, Brandeis University. Lauren Ellis, Curatorial Manager at Bendigo Art Gallery, is the managing curator for the exhibition in Australia.
Proudly presented as part of Bendigo International Collections.
Images:
Cover image: Frida Kahlo in blue satin blouse, 1939, photograph by Nickolas Muray © Nickolas Muray Photo Archives.
Above image: Frida Kahlo in blue satin blouse, 1939, photograph by Nickolas Muray © Nickolas Muray Photo Archives.
Bendigo Art Gallery
42 View Street
Bendigo VIC 3550
T: 03 5434 6088
E: bendigoartgallery@bendigo.vic.gov.au
W: www.bendigoartgallery.com.au
Opening Hours
Monday – Sunday: 10am – 5pm
(except Christmas Day)
Tours of the permanent collection daily at 2pm
Entry by donation
The Public Galleries Association of Victoria (PGAV) acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners of the lands where our office is located, and all Traditional Owners of country throughout Victoria and Australia. We recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples enduring traditions and continuing creative cultures. We pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
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