See this: A Life Seen Through Possessions: Frida by Ishiuchi Miyako

Frida Kahlo by Ishiuchi MiyakoFrida Kahlo’s iconic sense of style has influenced fashion and colour for decades and a new photographic collection detailing Kahlo’s wardrobe and belongings is currently on display at the Michael Hoppen Gallery.

Frida by Ishiuchi Miyako (2013) features items were which were sealed in a closed room in the artist’s former home, now Museo Frida Kahlo in Mexico City, for nearly 50 years. When they were discovered Miyako was invited to photograph the artefacts – over 300 unseen relics of Kahlo’s life.

Frida Kahlo by Ishiuchi Miyako After contracting polio as a child, being involved in a near fatal bus accident and later having a leg amputated, Kahlo experienced damage to her lower body which she used clothing to conceal, using dress as form of armour.

Frida Kahlo 4Frida Kahlo by Ishiuchi MiyakoIshiuchi Miyako’s work shows an obsession with the traces left behind by individuals. In her earlier series Mother’s (2000-2005) she photographed previously worn garments, evoking the lives and memories of the people who wore them. She has shown a similar obsession with Kahlo; concentrating on details such as paint stains, stitching and places of wear and tear which leave the imprint of their owner.

Frida Kahlo by Ishiuchi MiyakoAll the images from the collection have been compiled into a beautiful book, documenting Kahlo’s clothing, shoes, gloves, jewellery, make up and other accessories. The images are simple but insightful, and show her unique character and love of colour.

Frida Kahlo by Ishiuchi MiyakoFrida by Ishiuchi Miyako is on display at the Michael Hoppen Gallery until 12 July 2015.

 

 

3 Comments

  • Sarah says:

    I had no idea that FK had experienced that trauma, how wonderful that her legacy is her art – and her fabulous style.

  • Jan says:

    Thanks for this post. Always interesting to see such personal items in an exhibition. Wanted to comment also on the Venice Biennale post but it displayed comments closed. Thanks for that post too. I think the chance to visit Venice during the Biennale is to have an uplifting experience multiplied. Fantastic. I enjoyed the fringe events, many of which are free, as much as the main pavilion.

  • Sarah says:

    Loved your Biennale post, wouldn’t let me comment (like Jan above it says comments closed) more if you have it please!

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