Nathalie Sarju
Candidate Number:
Visual Arts
Mr. Randall Scott
Session: May 2014
Word Count: 3,829
Abstract
Miscarriages, betrayal, sickness, and relationships all assist in forming the damaged, difficult life Frida Kahlo survived through her art. Upon encountering the harsh experiences she went through, Kahlo would use art as her escape and as a means to express her feelings. This research was conducted to reflect and discuss the in depth symbolism Frida Kahlo used in her paintings as a way of overcoming the experiences she endured in throughout her life. Over time, how effective was Frida Kahlo in displaying her life experiences and her emotions connected with them in her artwork through her use of symbolism? Throughout this research, the sources used range from scholarly databases to detailed, educational fan sites and informative books. From the NYU School of Medicine, Literature, Arts, and Medicine Database, commentary from various trusted sources was presented alongside detailed descriptions and thorough analyses that helped in piecing together the evidence in this paper. Additionally, from the personal interview of Victor Zamudio-Taylor with PBS, an insight into the perspective of a Frida Kahlo fan was found. By dividing the sources throughout the essay among the different time periods, the rise and fall of Frida Kahlo’s emotions and life is discussed. Using chronological order made the organization and understanding clearer, as in it was a mini biography of her life through her paintings. Overall, through the extensive research and in depth analysis of Frida Kahlo’s artwork and its connection to her life experiences, Kahlo carefully developed each painting of hers to represent a significant event or feeling in her life. All in all, Kahlo and her artwork is now more treasured and appreciated for her use of symbolism.
Word Count: 274
Table of Contents
Cover Page 1
Abstract
References: Cooey, Paula M. Religious Imagination and the Body: A Feminist Analysis. New York: Oxford University Press, 1994. 184. Zamora, Martha. Frida Kahlo: The Brush of Anguish. Seattle: Marquand Books, 1990. 145. Zamudio Taylor, Victor