Frida Kahlo

Biography

Frida Kahlo (1907–1954) was a Mexican painter celebrated for her vivid, symbolic, and deeply personal artwork that explores identity, gender, and cultural heritage. Born on July 6, 1907, in Coyoacán, Mexico City, she survived polio as a child and was severely injured in a bus accident at age 18, an event that shaped both her life and her art.

Kahlo’s paintings often depict her physical and emotional pain through surreal and symbolic imagery. Her work blends realism with elements of folk art and Mexican culture, incorporating vibrant colors, indigenous motifs, and autobiographical themes. Notable works include The Two Fridas (1939), Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird (1940), and Henry Ford Hospital (1932).

Although her work gained limited recognition during her lifetime, Kahlo became an icon of feminist and cultural movements posthumously. She was married to fellow artist Diego Rivera, and their tumultuous relationship influenced much of her creative expression. Frida Kahlo remains celebrated globally for her unique artistic vision, resilience, and role as a symbol of individuality and empowerment.