Studying Frida Kahlo

There are few women who have changed the art world as dramatically as Frida Kahlo, a historic painter born in Mexico City in 1907. The Mexicanidad movement, a romantic nationalism that drew on indigenous styles and developed in the aftermath of the Mexican revolution, heavily influenced her work. Best known for her portraits and self-portraits, Kahlo’s work also drew on her personal life, including her battle with chronic pain and health issues. Much of her recognition came after her death in 1954. 

At The Foundations School, our students studied Frida Kahlo alongside other famous painters. They created a posterboard that showcased who she was and what her art was all about. In their poster, the students described Kahlo as “determined” and “creative.” They also noted how her paintings reflected her pain and how she chose to frequently paint herself with animals. Once the students completed these projects, they were displayed in the Sallie and Berton Korman Art Gallery. 

There are many great children’s books about Frida Kahlo, including Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos by Monica Brown and Frida Kahlo by Mary Nhin, which is part of the Mini Movers and Shakers series. Nhin’s story focuses on Kahlo’s childhood battle with polio and how it influenced her art. Brown’s book introduces readers to Kahlo’s pets and explores how these pets influenced Kahlo’s personality and art. 

Kahlo is just one of many artists that students at The Foundations School have studied. To learn more about our third-grade class’s recent project inspired by Bisa Butler, click here. You can find more profiles on important women in history through our #historymakers series on our social media channels.