Overview
| Bendigo Art Gallery 42 View Street, Bendigo VIC 3550 | |||||||||||||
| 15 Mar 25 - 13 Jul 25 | |||||||||||||
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Frida Kahlo: In her own image presents an intimate view of one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. This exclusive exhibition features Kahlo’s personal belongings, clothing, make-up, accessories, and medical items, on loan from the Museo Frida Kahlo in Mexico for the first time in Australia.
Sealed in a bathroom for 50 years after Kahlo’s death, in her cherished family home, La Casa Azul, this precious collection’s rediscovery sheds new light on Kahlo’s carefully crafted appearance.
In her vibrant clothing, dramatic use of make-up and adornment, and richly decorated medical protheses, Kahlo constructed a captivating public image which addressed geopolitical issues of her time, cultural and social identity, and her own body. Following childhood polio and a near fatal accident at the age of 18, Kahlo’s disabilities were fundamental to her self-fashioning in life and on the canvas.
Frida Kahlo: In her own image illuminates the resonant dialogues between Kahlo’s clothing and styling, her performance in photography, and her drawing and painting, including her iconic self-portraits.
Through photographs, documents, and personal mementoes, the exhibition considers the personal, political, philosophical, and artistic influences which shaped Kahlo’s distinctive world view and informed her groundbreaking creative output. The exhibition also examines Kahlo’s ascent to become one of the most heavily mythologised and revered cult figures of our time, and her profound legacy in art and society.
Frida Kahlo: In her own image was conceptualised and curated by Circe Henestrosa, fashion curator and Head of the School of Fashion at LASALLE College of the Arts Singapore, with advising curator Gannit Ankori, PhD, and Henry and Lois Foster, Director and Chief Curator, Rose Art Museum, Brandeis University. Lauren Ellis, Curatorial Manager at Bendigo Art Gallery, is the managing curator for the exhibition in Australia.
Proudly presented as part of Bendigo International Collections.
Exhibition organised in collaboration with Banco de Mexico Diego Rivera & Frida Kahlo Museums Trust. Av. 5 de Mayo No. 20, col. Center, alc. Cuauhtemoc, cp 06000, Mexico City.
Curatorial Introduction
Learn more about Frida Kahlo: In her own image through the curatorial introduction from Lauren Ellis, Curatorial Manager of Bendigo Art Gallery.
Audio Descriptions
Click on the play button to hear the general descriptions of each room in the exhibitions.
Ticketing and entrance
I am a mixture
Striking a pose
Here I was born
Gringolandia and Paris
Composing her selves and her art
Art and Dress
Disability and Creativity - Part 1
Disability and Creativity - Part 2
Adornment
Her own muse
Sensory Information
Frida Kahlo: In her own image exhibition may be a high-sensory experience for some visitors, with certain areas more stimulating than others. You can use this Sensory Map to identify both sensory-friendly and more intensive spaces during your visit.
Download the Sensory Map here.
For Kids
Did you know hummingbirds symbolise love and hope in Mexican culture? These tiny birds can flap their wings over 50 times per second and even fly backwards!
Look for labels with this hummingbird picture in the exhibition and enter Frida’s world.
Don't forget to pick up the activity sheet at the entry door, or download it here for a more fun experience in the exhibition.
Explore Bendigo
Plan your trip to Bendigo and immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Mexico with Fiesta Bendigo – a dynamic program of events and activities brought to you by the City of Greater Bendigo. Throughout the exhibition, Bendigo will come alive with the colours, flavours, and rhythms of Mexican culture, featuring delicious cuisine, art, music, and more.
Check the program calendar here.
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