Frida Kahlo

Frida Kahlo was a Mexican painter born on July 6, 1907, in Coyoacán, a suburb of Mexico City. She is known for her deeply personal, often surrealist self-portraits that explore themes of identity, pain, and femininity. Kahlo's early life was marked by polio, which left her with a lifelong limp, and a devastating bus accident at the age of 18 that resulted in serious injuries and a lifetime of medical problems. These experiences influenced her artwork profoundly. Kahlo studied at the National Preparatory School in Mexico City, where she became involved with the Mexican muralist movement and met Diego Rivera, whom she later married. Her work combines elements of magical realism, indigenous Mexican culture, and personal symbolism, often incorporating vibrant colors and intricate details. Among her notable works are "The Two Fridas" and "Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird." Kahlo's artistic journey was deeply intertwined with her tumultuous relationship with Rivera, and her works garnered more attention after her death in 1954. She is now recognized not only for her unique artistic style but also for her role as a feminist icon and an important figure in LGBTQ+ history, influencing countless artists and activists. Her legacy continues to thrive through exhibitions, books, and films that celebrate her life and art.