5 things we can learn from Frida Kahlo
Lessons in life and art
“Feet, what do I need you for when I have wings to fly?” — Frida Kahlo
Dear Readers! This instalment of ‘5 things we can learn from…’ is dedicated to the trailblazing Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo (1907—1954)
Vulnerable, heartbroken, strong, assertive, full of life and in love, Frida portrayed herself going through every emotion and in every guise. She was intrigued by the body’s ability to transform itself and used painting to explore her struggles in images that are brutal yet truthful.
Her works and words are endless sources of light and wisdom — I’ve collected some of my favourites for you here.
Check out the GWA podcast on Frida Kahlo with author Jessie Burton. Plus, an episode I presented for BBC Radio 3 looking at her painting, Broken Column.
Enjoy Xoxo Katy
1. Hold on to joy
“There is nothing more precious than laughter–it is strength to laugh and lose oneself, to be light.”
The title of this work, painted just a few days before Frida died, translates to “Long Live Life” — a phrase that, for me, sums up the joy and perseverance that she embodied, despite her many hardships.
2. Everything is temporary
“Nothing is absolute. Everything changes, everything moves, everything revolves”
3. Use your self as your subject
“I paint self-portraits because I am so often alone, because I am the person I know best.”
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