The former home of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo's sister, Casa Roja, has opened its doors to the public as Museo Casa Kahlo. This new museum in Mexico City offers an intimate look into the artist's personal life, beyond her public image and relationship with Diego Rivera. Visitors can now explore spaces filled with personal artifacts, letters, and a recreated hidden studio previously unseen.
Key Takeaways
- Casa Roja, Frida Kahlo's sister's former home, is now Museo Casa Kahlo.
- The museum focuses on Kahlo's private life as a daughter, sister, and friend.
- Exhibits include personal artifacts, letters, photographs, and clothing.
- A previously hidden studio of Frida Kahlo has been recreated in the basement.
- The project involved Rockwell Group for experience design and Pentagram for graphic design.
A Glimpse into Frida's Private World
Museo Casa Kahlo, operated by Fundación Kahlo, aims to tell the untold story of Frida Kahlo's day-to-day existence. The exhibits move beyond her well-known artistic persona and her marriage to Diego Rivera. Instead, they highlight her roles as a daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.
This approach provides a fresh perspective on one of Mexico's most celebrated artists. The museum's focus on personal relationships and early inspirations offers a deeper understanding of the woman behind the iconic paintings.
Did You Know?
Frida Kahlo's parents originally purchased Casa Roja. Later, Frida herself bought the home for her sister and her family, ensuring they lived close to her own residence, Casa Azul.
The Transformation of Casa Roja
Architect Mariana Doet Zepeda Orozco led the transformation of Casa Roja into the new museum. Rockwell Group handled the experience and exhibit design, while Pentagram and Ileen Gallagher managed graphic design and creative direction. The collaborative effort sought to preserve the home's historical integrity while creating engaging visitor spaces.
The former driveway of Casa Roja has been converted into the museum's entrance. This new entry point welcomes visitors with a ticketing desk crafted by artisans from Guadalajara and walls adorned with historical photographs.
"The house tells the previously untold story of Frida as a daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, outside of the confines of her life as a partner to Diego Rivera," stated Rockwell Group.
Restored Courtyard and Hidden Retreat
The home's courtyard underwent extensive restoration based on historical family photographs. A curved corner stair, which had been lost over time, was meticulously rebuilt. The courtyard now features ceramics sourced from across Mexico, serving as planters for various plants.
A hand-carved Cantera Stone pot holds a grapefruit tree. This tree is significant as it is depicted in a mural painted by Frida Kahlo herself in the home's kitchen. This detail connects the physical space with Kahlo's artistic output.
Visitors can explore a series of galleries and restored rooms, including the darkroom of Frida's father, Guillermo. These spaces lead down to the basement, where the artist's "hidden retreat" has been recreated.
Historical Context
Casa Roja was also the location where Frida and her sister established La Ayuda, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting single mothers. This highlights another facet of Kahlo's life focused on social engagement.
Frida's Secret Studio: A Focal Point
The recreated hidden studio in the basement is a central feature of the new museum. This intimate space, never before seen by the public, offers a profound insight into Kahlo's creative process and personal interests.
The studio is filled with Frida's personal collections, including dolls and a bug collection. Furniture, textiles, her desk, paints, and even some of her paintings are carefully arranged to evoke her presence. It is designed to make guests feel her spirit and creative energy.
The LAB at Rockwell Group developed an interactive replica of Frida's microscope. This allows visitors to observe the same specimens that Kahlo herself studied, creating a direct, hands-on connection to her intellectual curiosity.
- The studio includes personal objects like dolls and a bug collection.
- Furniture and textiles from Kahlo's time are present.
- Her desk, paints, and paintings are on display.
- An interactive microscope allows visitors to study specimens like Frida.
Frida Kahlo, who passed away in 1954, remains a powerful figure in art history. Her work continues to inspire artists and captivate audiences globally. This new museum offers a unique opportunity to understand the private life of a public icon, providing a richer, more nuanced portrait of her legacy.