The exhibition will showcase Frida Kahlo’s inspirations
Frida Kahlo was a Mexican artist widely considered one of the twentieth century’s most significant and influential artists. Kahlo was always proud and inspired by Mexico’s pre-Hispanic culture at a time when it wasn’t fashionable.
Nature was a prevalent aspect of her work, such as in her pieces: Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird and Living Nature. The garden at her home, Casa Azul, in Coyoacán, Mexico City, was a creative refuge and a source of inspiration for Kahlo and her husband and fellow artist Diego Rivera. Their garden was filled with Mexican plants, some of which were planted in their pre-Hispanic artifacts and folk art. These were displayed on a four-tiered pyramid inspired by the Mesoamerican city of Teotihuacan. Carlsbad’s William D. Cannon Art Gallery is one of only three California venues hosting this traveling exhibition showcasing photographs and other memorabilia of the iconic Mexican artist.
This exhibition will focus on how her Casa Azul garden, along with the diverse Mexican plant life and the country’s rich cultural history, all nourished the creativity of one of the world’s great artists. The exhibition will last until October 20 on Tuesdays through Thursdays from Noon to 7 pm. and on Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 5 pm.
The exhibition is funded by the National Endowment of the Humanities and traveled by ExhibitsUSA. The Cannon Art Gallery Guided Tours are available, and last 30-45 minutes, they meet in front of the Cannon Art Gallery at the Dove library complex. If you need to schedule a tour for a large group or a tour in Spanish, you can contact the Community Arts Coordinator at: laurette.garner@carlsbadca.gov or call (442) 245-0953.
Featured image: Alexandra Ozerova / Shutterstock.com