While Mexican painter Frida Kahlo is widely recognised for her distinctive appearance, characterised by her iconic unibrow, bold red lips and, often, elaborate Tehuana dresses paired with flowers in her hair, many may not fully grasp the depth of her artistic oeuvre or her suffering that shaped her life and work.
This is why exhibitions such as Laid Bare: Frida’s Inner World hold such significance. Held at the ArtScience Museum from May to September this year, it offered an intimate exploration of Kahlo’s life and her remarkable resilience in transforming a lifetime of chronic pain into artistic expression. It also delved into the often‑overlooked narrative of her complex medical history, showcasing a collection of documents, photographs and contemporary artworks, providing a deeper understanding of how her experiences influenced her work and identity.
Bringing a unique perspective to this exhibition was its co‑curator Circe Henestrosa—fashion curator; head of the School of Fashion at Lasalle College of the Arts, University of the Arts Singapore; and a Kahlo expert. Her deep connection to Kahlo stems from her childhood in Mexico City, where she grew up hearing stories of the artist. Her family’s ties to Kahlo run even deeper: her great‑uncle Andres Henestrosa and great‑aunt Alfa Rios were part of the circle of intellectuals surrounding Kahlo and her husband, Diego Rivera, in the 1930s and ’40s.
This story is from the November 2024 edition of Tatler Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 2024 edition of Tatler Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Mathew Leong
As the Norway-based Singaporean chef celebrates a milestone year both personally and professionally, he opens up about the toughest moments of his career and why failing is not an option
Asian Inspirations
Chef Ace Tan on his second restaurant, Asu-his love letter to regional Asian cuisine
State of the Arts
Arts nominated member of parliament Usha Chandradas discusses growing the creative economy by focusing on both supply and demand
Through a Curator's Lens
Circe Henestrosa, a fashion curator and the head of the School of Fashion at Lasalle College of the Arts, University of the Arts Singapore, merges her personal connection with artist Frida Kahlo with her extensive curatorial experience to explore intersecting themes of identity, disability and cultural heritage
Second Nature
Poet and educator Yong Shu Hoong brings fresh perspectives to the helm of the Singapore Writers Festival, from interdisciplinary perspectives to multilingual programmes
Wine Down
Nothing wraps up the day like a nice glass of vino. From flashy hedonistic escapades to geeky watering holes, these new wine bars promise celebrated viniferous pours that will please even the most discerning of oenophiles
A Legacy in Silhouettes
Kristina Blahnik, CEO of the designer shoe brand Manolo Blahnik and the niece of its legendary founder, shares her insights on preserving the house's heritage and introduces the new Manolo's Silhouettes campaign
To Have and to Hold
With its sumptuous textures, Loro Piana's elegant autumn/winter 2024 collection is a chic celebration of craft, quality and the universal appeal of tactility
Scent of Strength
Hermès unveils its first chypre perfume, Barénia―a captivating fragrance crafted by renowned perfumer Christine Nagel that embodies bold femininity and celebrates the brand's rich heritage
Nocturnal Revival
Nighttime skincare rituals will get a boost of supercharged restoration with La Mer's new Rejuvenating Night Cream