Frida Kahlo was born 116 years ago today. The Mexican painter and artist is known for multiple things, including her colorful style, incredible quotes, and powerful self-portraits. She’s an artist that remains as enigmatic and appealing as ever.
To commemorate her birthday, we’ve compiled some facts about her life, which was eventful, layered, and as complex as her art. Scroll down to learn more below:
© GettyImagesHer true fame began after her death
Frida Kahlo was an artist all of her life, gaining recognition in Mexico and on an international level. Still, it wasn’t until her work was rediscovered years after her death that the “Fridamania” began in earnest, transforming Kahlo into an icon and one of the most beloved figures in the entire world.
© GettyImagesFrida Kahlo
© GettyImagesShe was affected by her health over the course of her entire life
Kahlo’s life was greatly impacted by tragedy and pain. When she was six years old, she had polio, a disease that affected her development and stunted the growth of one of her legs. When she was 18, she was involved in a dangerous bus accident that left her gravely injured, resulting in chronic pain for the rest of her life and in the inability to bear children.
© GettyImagesHer condition shaped her style
Kahlo’s art was greatly impacted by her health condition. Following her car crash, Kahlo’s mother installed a mirror at the top of Kahlo’s bed, which was used in the making of many of her iconic self-portraits. “I paint self-portraits because I am so often alone, because I am the person I know best,” she said of her work.
© GettyImagesAn unflinching look at her pain
Kahlo’s artwork is surreal but also deeply personal. The artist often painted one of the things that pained her the most: the inability to have kids. In various self-portraits, Kahlo includes her miscarriages, resulting in powerful and unique pieces of art.
© GettyImagesHer home is now a museum
The Frida Kahlo museum is located in Mexico City, in the home where she grew up and spent most of her life. It’s also known as La Casa Azul, The Blue House, due its distinctive bright blue walls.
