Frida Kahlo: Art, Garden, Life

Focusing on her lesser-known yet equally spectacular still lifes, as well as works that engage nature in unusually symbolic ways, the exhibition included works such as Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird (1940); Flower of Life (1944); Still Life with Parrot and Flag (1951); and Self-Portrait Inside a Sunflower (1954).

A scale version of the artist’s pyramid—created to display pre-Hispanic art collected by her husband, muralist Diego Rivera—featured traditional terra-cotta pots containing desert plants found in her garden. The exhibition included a reimagining of Kahlo’s studio overlooking the garden, as well as the organ pipe cactus fence located at Rivera’s studio in nearby San Ángel. Visitors experienced the Casa Azul as the ultimate expression of Kahlo’s connection to Mexico and the natural world.

Visitors delighted in the spirit of the exhibition during weekend festivities featuring contemporary sets of traditional Mexican songs, in addition to hands-on, family-friendly activities and shopping. Ballet folklórico dance performances and Mexican fare—including some of Kahlo’s own recipes—made for a full day of upbeat and colorful entertainment. Recalling the inspired life lived by Kahlo and Diego Rivera, an engaging panel exhibition completed the experience with a presentation of museums and other sites where the creative pair’s works and collections could be enjoyed.