Thursday, February 21, 2013

at the High

the Flower Carrier - 1935 - Diego Rivera
 Linda and I ventured into the city yesterday to see "Frida & Diego: Passion, Politics and Painting" at the High Museum.

I found Frida Kahlo's work sad and depressing and could    only  think how a caring therapist or the right meds could have helped her. Given her physical calamities, she had every right to her sorrow but it was tedious alongside the lush exuberance of Diego Rivera's work.  If you are in or near Atlanta don't miss this show.

6 comments:

Kit Lang said...

Hmmmm... I guess if it's in YOUR city that means I missed it in MY city. We were planning to go and see it next week. Guess we got the dates wrong! lol

Interesting that you found Frida's work "tedious" - a friend who went thought it was glorious! All those unflattering self portraits though... might get a bit... "tedious". ;)

(Judging by photographs of her, she was a very attractive, some might say "beautiful" woman - interesting that she consistently portrayed herself in such an unflattering way. I wonder if it was a deliberate statement or if she truly saw herself that way...)

Deb Lacativa said...

Each piece itself was engaging in it's own way but after a dozen, the overall tone was what I found tedious. A still life with fruit was good for a grin. There were enough photographs of her to prove her exotic good looks but even a beautiful woman loses a step when her very damaged soul leaps out of her eyes in every image.

Terry Grant said...

I understand the "tedious" comment, and still I wonder why I am so fascinated with her work. It is probably because it is such a raw glimpse into her terrors and pain and depression. It haunts.

Margaret McCarthy Hunt said...

I just went to the show last Th and we found Rivera pale in comparison. Frieda's work vibrated with life and color. She painted to please herself while he painted to sell.

Margaret McCarthy Hunt said...

I just went to the show last Th and we found Rivera pale in comparison. Frieda's work vibrated with life and color. She painted to please herself while he painted to sell.

Margaret McCarthy Hunt said...

Also thought her monkeys were marvelous. Her eyes nailed you. The two portraits of the female patron. His was pretty and pale. Hers a completely different take full of life color. The woman's fur felt like you could touch it. Have a much greater appreciation of her art since seeing it. That said cant wait for the Vermeer exhibit!