Kiersten Szymecki, Contributing Writer
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is showcasing works by and about legendary Mexican artist Frida Kahlo until the end of September. Several of her pieces are on display, along with photographs of her taken by world-renowned artists.
A buzz hangs in the air at the VMFA gallery as people from all over have spent the summer absorbing the emotion of Kahlo’s pieces.
The exhibition presents Kahlo’s artwork in reverse-chronological order to create an experience of traveling back in time, as Kahlo captured the “memorable and haunting images of the 20th century,”exhibition curator Sarah G. Powers stated in an email.
“We have been really thrilled to see an audience that can relate to Frida’s intense connection to her Mexican heritage,” Powers stated.
Kahlo’s work explores themes such as capitalism, colonialism, class, chronic pain, loss and love.
“Art was a tool for survival and helped her to overcome difficult times and physical challenges,” Powers stated.
The gallery’s final room invites guests to sit and observe the subject they know best: themselves. Powers stated it is moving to see how “visitors can create their own artwork inspired by Frida and leave it in a gallery for others to view.”
Kahlo’s native country of Mexico has laws to protect its cultural heritage, as many of her works remain protected there, according to Powers. The VMFA acquired permission from the Mexican government as many pieces from private collections are rarely seen in the United States.
The VMFA partnered with the Dallas Museum of Art, where the exhibition premiered, according to the museum. It is the only gallery on the East Coast the exhibition is visiting.
The display is a team effort, Powers said. It required the collaboration of devoted graphic designers, educators, art handlers, registrars and art conservators, to bring the exhibit to Richmond.
The public response to the exhibit has exceeded expectations, according to VMFA director and CEO Alex Nyerges.
“Better yet, the post-visit survey responses from visitors have been outstanding,” Nyerges stated. “We are surprised and pleased that visitors to the exhibition have noticed and appreciated the exhibition design and its connection to Frida Kahlo’s home; Casa Azul and Mexico City.”
Kahlo’s painting of actor Dorothy Hale drew special attention from visitors, according to Nyerges.
“Frida Kahlo’s work resonates beyond geographical boundaries,” Nyerges stated. “Her art appeals to everyone, especially women, due to the deeply emotional content about the struggles of life.”
Attendees can engage with museum materials in English or Spanish to include interpretive text, audio guides and programming.
Nyerges stated he feels a mixture of sadness and relief as the exhibit nears closure.
“There is hope that our visitors’ worlds are enlarged and brightened both with the understanding and appreciation they gain from the exhibition, and for how they see the world around them after they leave,” Nyerges stated.
In Kahlo’s own words, “Everything can have beauty, even the worst horror.” For countless attendees who encountered her works and those inspired by her at the VMFA, that sentiment holds true.
CORRECTION: A previous version of this story misspelled Alex Nyerges’ last name. The story has been updated with the correct spelling.