Lecture series: How Frida Kahlo & Mexican Modernism thrived

The series of talks explores the cultural and artistic foundations of modern art in Mexico and provides context to the phenomenon of Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and their artistic circle. Hear from New Zealand-based Mexican academics, along with a leading expert on expatriatism, and deepen your appreciation of the political and artistic environment in post-Revolution Mexico.

The first talk by Dr Walescka Pino-Ojeda will track the many lives of Frida Kahlo as a daughter of the Mexican Revolution and central figure in the construction of a new “Mexicanidad” — an identity that acknowledged the indigenous character both of Mexico’s foundations and its persistent contemporary worldviews and practices. Next, Dr Leonard Bell will reveal the innovative and artistically productive relationships between Mexicans and European and North American refugees fleeing conflicts. Finally, turning to Frida herself, Dr Diana Albarrán González will explore how Kahlo used her clothing as a symbol of political and cultural identity, shedding light on the richness of Indigenous artisans and Mexican textile traditions.

This event is part of our membership programme. Members receive free unlimited entry to 'Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera: Art and Life in Modern Mexico'. Join us for $80 per year (discounts available for students and seniors).

Image credit: Imogen Cunningham, Frida Kahlo Photograph, 1931, detail. © 2022 Imogen Cunningham Trust / www.imogencunningham.com