Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera
Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera
Lecturer: Chloe Sayer
Frida Kahlo (1907-1954) and Diego Rivera (1886-1957) have iconic status in Mexico. Rivera’s intricate visual narratives, rich with allegory and symbolism, adorn the walls of public buildings. Inspired by Aztec and Maya imagery, and by early Italian fresco painting, his vast murals combine social criticism with faith in human progress. Kahlo’s work, unlike Rivera’s, is small in format. Arguably Mexico’s most original painter, she made herself the principal theme of her art. Her paintings reflect her experiences and dreams. This lecture surveys the work of both artists. It chronicles their turbulent marriage and Mexico’s history after the Mexican Revolution.
Chloe Sayer is a freelance specialist in the art and culture of Latin America. She has lectured in the UK, Canada, Ireland, Mexico, Australia and New Zealand. Chloe has also curated exhibitions, and assisted on TV documentaries for BBC and Channel 4 and has made collections in Mexico and Belize for the British Museum. Additionally, Chloe is a Research Associate in the Department of World Cultures at the Royal Ontario Museum and in 2016 was awarded the prestigious Ohtli medal by the Mexican government for her long-standing commitment to Mexican culture. Chloe has published several books about the arts and crafts of the Aztecs and the Incas and has also published articles in travel guides, newspapers and magazines.