Frida Kahlo

Frida Kahlo (1907-1954)

Frida was a mexican painter who has achieved international popularity. She painted using vibrant colours in a style that was influenced by indigenous cultures of mexico as well as symbolism and surrealism. Many of her works are self-portraits that symbolically express the pain she experienced during her life.Kahlo suffered from both polio and spinabifida during her childhood. When she was 18 she was involved in a bus accident in which she suffered many injuries including a broken spinal column, collarbone, ribs and pelvis. An iron rail pierced her uterus which damaged her ability to conceive.

Self portrait on the border between Mexico and the United States

The name on the pedestal is her married name which shows her pride in her husband.

The artist shows herself as a statue to highlight her role as the wife of a famous artist with high social standing.

Her jewellery is coral and gemstone; both Mexican handicrafts to reaffirm her identity.

The sun and the moon represent male and female in pre Hispanic Mexican mythology and the lightening between the two suggests the passion or turmoil between her and a lover

Aztec step pyramid - a place where hearts were sacrificed; referring again to a relationship

The pile of rubble is that of a building or home that once was, this could be in relation to her difficult family life growing up.

Two female clay figures. One is showing the innocence of her childhood, the other figure holding the headless child is referring to a miscarriage she had around the time of painting this picture.

The flowers in the foreground although beautiful at first are actually poisonous, some of them being used to bring on abortion again referring to the loss of a child

The light bulbs represent electricity and technological advancement

The buildings and the factory represent industry and prosperity

13. (a) Describe and discuss one of the following:• a portrait• a painting or sculpture of the nude• a work of Pop Art• an abstract work of artYou may select a work from any period you wish. You should name the artist,refer to the style and to the use of materials.(b) Describe another work of art by your chosen artist, allowing the followingheadings to help you with your answer:• medium• composition• colour and light• details• styleUse sketches to illustrate your answer.

Leaving Certificate – Ordinary Level

2003