The Met Frida Kahlo: She Painted Her World in Self-Portraits by DK Publishing

 This biography series What The Artist Saw for children (7-9 years) brings an amazing character of Frida Kahlo whose colorful surroundings and supportive parents influenced her to become an original artist.

Her story begins in childhood. Her grandfather was a painter, and her father, who came from Germany, was a photographer. He showed her how to take pictures and taught her appreciation for nature. Their blue house, La Casa Azul, was surrounded by lots of flowers, attracting colorful butterflies, birds, and other animals. Her father believed that, like boys, a girl should have an education, which she pursued.

To help her parents with money, she got a job as an assistant to a printmaker. This position gave her opportunity to learn how to draw by copying the work of famous artists. In her final year of school, she got into a horrible accident. She suffered many fractures and broken bones. She had to stay in bed for months where she grew restless. Her mother came up with very creative ideas for Frida to paint. And this is when her creative soul blossomed. As soon as she was able to walk, she went to Diego Rivera to have a look at her paintings. At her school, Diego Rivera, a prominent Mexican painter, was hired to create a mural. He was dazzled by her artistry.

Her story continues with her marriage and how she developed her authentic style.

Frida’s story is engrossingly presented. It exposes her whole life, with enough details to give dimensions, but not to overwhelm. There are some words which might be hard for children to pronounce, and the meaning might have to be explained.

Overall, wonderful storytelling and eye-catching illustrations that pop-out of the pages and enforce the true spirit of the artist Frida was.

Published in December 2023 by DK Children

Source: DK Children 

TRENDING INSPIRATION: Be Creative and Let Nature Inspire You

Traits:

·         Be original

·         Use nature to inspire you

·         Use opportunities to learn something new

·         Be creative in times of hardship

·         Don’t let adversity to defy your goal

·         Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice

 

“I never paint dreams or nightmares. I paint my own reality.” – Frida Kahlo

“I tried to drown my sorrows, but the bastards learned how to swim, and now I am overwhelmed by this decent and good feeling.” – Frida Kahlo