Houston festival celebrates ‘universal language’ of Frida Kahlo’s art
Frida Kahlo is arguably one of the most influential and iconic artists of the 20th century, and her legacy continues to inspire people today. Houston artist Lizbeth Ortiz recognized this, and in 2005, started the Frida Festival to celebrate Kahlo’s birthday on July 6. Over the years, the festival has grown, drawing in over 30,000 people between 2018 and 2021.
The festival is not just a celebration of Kahlo’s life and artwork but is also an opportunity for emerging artists and students to showcase their work. The festival engages young artists to create pieces influenced by Kahlo, and their artwork is auctioned off. This year, even a 6-year-old participated, and her piece sold for $350 to a collector in Florida.
The festival is organized by Ortiz, who is originally from Mexico City and moved to Texas with her family when she was two years old. The event is free and takes place at MECA, 1900 Kane Street, with The Alley Theater as its creative sponsor for the first time this year.
The festival attracts visitors from different backgrounds, and many come dressed in Kahlo’s signature style. Her trademark look of full skirts, embroidered blouses, flower headdresses, and thick, bushy unibrows is an icon of her individuality and strength.
Kahlo’s diary is another testament to her passion and journey as a Mexican artist, feminist, and wife of muralist Diego Rivera. It’s mostly written in Spanish, making it a perfect tool to sharpen language comprehension skills. It’s also a source of inspiration for many, including artists, creatives, and feminists.
Frida Kahlo’s influence on the mainstream culture is also visible in the proliferation of merchandise featuring her image. From T-shirts to tote bags, there are plenty of ways to show appreciation for her. Even Beyoncé dressed up as Kahlo for an arty Halloween party in 2014. But with the Frida Festival, Ortiz is determined to keep Kahlo’s legacy alive in the local art community.
Related Facts:
– Frida Kahlo’s work is known for its vibrant colors and bold symbols that represent her experiences and emotions.
– Some of Kahlo’s most famous works include The Two Fridas, Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird, and What the Water Gave Me.
– Kahlo’s artwork often explored themes around identity, gender, and physical suffering.
Key Takeaway:
– The Frida Festival in Houston celebrates Frida Kahlo’s life and artwork, engaging emerging artists and students to create work influenced by her.
– Kahlo’s legacy continues to inspire people today, and her diary is a great resource for sharpening language skills and gaining inspiration.
– Kahlo’s trademark look is an icon of her individuality and strength, and she continues to have a significant influence on mainstream culture.
In conclusion, the Frida Festival is a celebration of Frida Kahlo’s life, art, and legacy, and it’s a great opportunity to appreciate art, culture, and creativity. The festival attracts visitors from all over, and the artwork created by young artists shows that Kahlo’s influence will continue to inspire future generations.
