Frida Kahlo portraits go on show in London Fields for Women’s History Month

An eclectic mix of portraits of the iconic artist Frida Kahlo will mark Women’s History Month at a London Fields gallery.

Curator Helen Edwards from The East End Prints Shop in Westgate Street decided to focus on the Mexican painter best known for her self-portraits in the show Finding 50 Fridas, because she “moved a lot of people with her life”.

Kahlo’s work is celebrated in Mexico where it symbolises national and indigenous tradition, and also by feminists for her depiction of the female experience and body.

Kahlo suffered lifelong health problems after being hit by a bus as a teenager, and her physical and emotional pain are depicted starkly on her canvases, as is her relationship with her husband, fellow artist Diego Rivera, who she married twice.

Ms Edwards said: “Frida was a muse and triumphed against adversity after her accident. When we searched online we realised how many artists were already painting or drawing Fridas, and artists from around the world have sent us their work.

“Frida had a turbulent love life. She was bisexual and very open about that.

“She is almost like a feminist icon – that’s what appeals to people. She’s a strong woman and she was ahead of the curve, for being a muse for being experimental.”

“Everything goes” for the exhibition, which includes drawing, mosaics, street art, paintings and prints. Nearby London Fields Primary School has also made three collages.

A cut of the takings go to women’s charity Margaret’s Fund.

The show runs from March 17 to April 3.