Anyone who uses Snapchat will probably have heard of Frida Kahlo, or at least be familiar with the filter that helps you look like her. The renowned Mexican painter, best known for her self-portraits, has become a pop culture icon over the last few months after taking the social media world by storm. For those who are interested in learning more about the woman behind the filter, and her contributions to the world of art, this is a celebration of Frida Kahlo.

Born in July 1907, Frida was a promising student of medicine who was left paralysed from polio at a young age. She turned to art, which was just a hobby at the time, after being forced to quit her studies for health reasons. While travelling around Mexico and the US, working on commissions, Kahlo began to develop her unique artistic style.

The self-taught painter was renowned for not pulling any punches with her creations. One particular piece, ‘The Suicide of Dorothy Hale’, was the subject of much controversy due to its abrupt, graphic depiction of the American actress’s death. Frida’s visual style was heavily influenced by Mexican folk art, mixing fantasy with realism. The tone of her chosen themes often reflected her political taste, touching on issues of race, class and gender identity.

image: https://www.fridakahlo.org

Her work is recognised globally for its bold representation of Mexican indigenous tradition, with her paintings being displayed in museums all over America and other areas of the world. She was the first Mexican artist whose work was featured in the Louvre’s collection. Later she began teaching hopeful artists and co-founded the Mexican Culture Seminar. Celebrated by feminist for her unyielding portrayal of the female form, Frida still remains an iconic figure 60 years after her death.

Something else that Frida was known for, besides her many contributions to the world of art, was her appearance. Her strikingly distinguished look is acclaimed by her peers as part of her empowering legacy. To coincide with International Women’s Day, leaders of the Frida Kahlo Corporation teamed up with Snapchat to allow people everywhere to share the artist’s unique look. More recently, a number of Frida’s portrait pieces have been reimagined in digital form as emojis. Conceived by graphic designer Sam Cantor, these cartoon conversions will bring Kahlo’s creations into the digital age.

As a painter and a public figure, she was revered and loved by her fans and fellow artists. As a women, she gained the respect and admiration of millions. Even today, Frida Kahlo is a dominant figure in pop culture, and will be remembered for generations.

If you’re a fan of Frida’s style, browse our collection of online art to find something similar for your home or place of work?

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