A Short Biography of Frida Kahlo

Sugar Skull for Day of the Dead, 1950 Gift of Dr. A.W. Bork (E-2417-x-10)

Frida Kahlo was born in Coyoacan on July 6, 1907. In 1925 she was involved in a trolley accident which left her with permanent injuries. Among these were vertebrae fractures, pelvis fractures, fractures in her right foot and a serious abdominal wound caused by a handrail. She was expected to never recover enough to walk again, although she eventually did. The rest of her life was punctuated with treatments and surgeries, including the amputation of her right leg, in order to mitigate the effects of her injuries.

Ceramic Devil, 1963 Metepec, State of Mexico Museum Purchase (E-5827)

In 1929, she married Mexican muralist Diego Rivera. The two were divorced and then later remarried. Much has been written about their stormy relationship. It is enough to say here that Rivera was clearly a pivotal force in Frida's life and she in his.

Thoughout her life Frida was a fierce nationalist and a vocal socialist. As a reflection of her beliefs, Frida often wore the indigenous clothing of Mexico. This can be seen both in photographs of her and in her paintings. Frida completed 143 paintings during her lifetime, 55 of which are self-portraits. Many of these self-portaits are among her most famous works. Her works were often classified as surrealist, although she did not like this label. The colors and many of the symbols used in her work are clearly influenced by Mexican tradition.

She died in 1954.

Miniature Wooden Devil Mask, 1970
Michoacàn
Gift of Harriet Martin
(88-34-1)