The iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo embodies the vibrant colors and tragic history of her native land. Born in a time of revolution and turmoil, she overcame poverty, childhood polio and a severe injury from a trolley accident. Despite the suffering caused by her illness and the constant pain resulting from her accident, Frida Kahlo produced an astounding number of self-portraits and other works that make her one of the most popular female artists of all time.
Sixty years after her death at age 47, she is known for her intriguing artwork and her turbulent relationship with fellow artist, Diego Rivera, who was one of her biggest supporters. Rivera wrote to a friend about her work: “I recommend her to you, not as a husband but as an enthusiastic admirer of her work, acid and tender, hard as steel and delicate and fine as a butterfly’s wing, loveable as a beautiful smile, and profound and cruel as the bitterness of life.” Her short life was filled with personal triumphs, the sorrow of heartbreak, and of course the physical limitations from her injuries. She lived every moment to the fullest and should inspire us all to stretch beyond our reach.
1. Chase Passion
Frida Kahlo played sports in an era when women did not participate in organized games. She painted brutally honest self-portraits, not afraid to put her emotions or perceived physical flaws on canvas.
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