Frida Kahlo Symbols

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The definition of a symbol can be described as a mark or character that has a representation of a deeper meaning. Symbols vary over three categories; universal, cultural and personal. Usually, art has deeper connotations embedded within the canvas, to communicate these implications, artists use symbols. Symbols tell parts of the story and therefore become an essential part of any art piece. An artist who uses symbols successfully is known as Frida Kahlo who painted Diego on My Mind in 1943. Diego on My Mind, 61 x 73cm, is oil on Masonite and has symbols that depict her life. Kahlo quotes "I never painted my dreams. I painted my own reality" (1939). This can be seen through her use of symbols that depict her life to the viewers.
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The most eye-catching aspect of the piece would be the small portrait of Diego that lies upon her forehead. This is a straight-forward symbol that represents Kahlo’s love for her husband. Despite his repetitive pattern of infidelity, she still cannot remove him from her thoughts; he has become a permanent part of her mind, she has become an obsessive lover (Frida Kahlo Fans, 2016). In this piece, Kahlo is dressed as a traditional Tehuana, from her previous piece The Two Fridas (1939) it was observed that Kahlo struggled to be the woman Diego expected her to be. The fact that she has chosen to paint herself in traditional Mexican wear may be because she wants to attract Diego and lure him into fidelity (Frida Kahlo Fans, 2016). This constant desire to possess Diego is not only shown in her attire but is represented through the intertwining roots that spring from the bundle of flowers that form something close to a web. This symbolises that with her blossoming love she wishes to trap Diego in the web of monogamy, to root himself to her (Aaron, 2016). This was painted after the two remarried, her emotions would have been strong and fresh, the painting portrays her burdening desire to keep him tied to

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