An international-exclusive exhibition dedicated to the life of Frida Kahlo is coming to Bendigo. Look forward to artworks and objects by the prolific artist that have never been seen before in Australia. These works will come straight from Museo Frida Kahlo in Mexico. Frida Kahlo: In her own image will be on display at Bendigo Art Gallery from Saturday March 15 to Sunday July 13 in 2025.
Frida Kahlo: In her own image at Bendigo Art Gallery
This incredible exhibition will provide an intimate view of one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. See her vibrant artworks, as well as personal belongings like her clothes, make-up, accessories and even medical items. Many of these objects were hidden from public view for decades after her death. The exhibition will explore the connection between Frida Kahlo’s clothing and styling, her home, her paintings and drawings, and her photographic images.
“This remarkable collection rarely travels outside Mexico, and has never before been seen in Australia,” said Jessica Bridgfoot, Director of Bendigo Art Gallery. “Kahlo’s much-loved home, Casa Azul, now the Museo Frida Kahlo, was the embodiment of her art, philosophies and design influences.”
“Frida Kahlo: In her own image originates from the extensive investigation of Frida Kahlo’s personal objects, found in trunks, wardrobes, drawers, bathrooms and cellars of the Casa Azul,” said Perla Labarthe Alvarez, Director of Museo Frida Kahlo. “The exhibition is a unique opportunity to learn about Kahlo’s life in a classical Mexican house which encompassed not only her personal world but so much of Mexican life and culture. These enduring objects help us understand the story of this complex artist with all her humanity, resilience and creative power.”
Exhibition highlights include:
- Traditional regional Mexican garments worn by Kahlo, including a resplandor, a pleated white headdress worn by Tehuana women of Oaxaca region.
- A collection of her favourite Revlon cosmetics, including eyebrow pencil, blush and lipstick, used by the artist to accentuate her features.
- Medical corsets worn after spinal surgeries following a traffic accident. These corsets have been hand-painted and embellished by Kahlo, including one painted with a broken Tuscan column representing her spine.
- A self-portrait drawing called, Appearances Can be Deceiving. It features an x-ray view through Kahlo’s clothing to her corset and injured body beneath.
This exhibition will be presented at Bendigo Art Gallery, which is roughly two hours away from Melbourne. It follows other successful exhibitions, such as Elvis: Direct from Graceland and Grace Kelly: Style Icon.
“This exhibition will showcase the best of international art right here in Bendigo, while showcasing the best of our region to visitors from across Victoria and interstate,” said Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards.
The gallery is open daily from 10am to 5pm.