Frida Kahlo: My Symbolic Portrait
Cultural Reflections Through Color and Self-Portrait
Exploring Artistic Expression and Cultural Identity Through Frida Kahlo’s Legacy
Program Length:
60 minutes
Audience:
Schools, Museums, Community Centers, Wellness Programs, and Art Therapy Groups
Cost per Classroom:
$425 (includes all materials)
Travel Fee: An additional fee applies for locations beyond a 30-mile radius.
Capacity:
Up to 25 participants
Program Overview
This immersive program introduces participants to the life, culture, and artistic techniques of Frida Kahlo through engaging storytelling, reflective discussions, and hands-on art creation. Drawing on the children’s book Frida by Jonah Winter and curated images of Kahlo’s work, students will explore how her Mexican heritage—evident in her distinctive hair, traditional clothing, jewelry, and symbolic animal imagery—influenced her art. Participants will learn how to use colors and symbols to express personal feelings, cultural narratives, and historical context, culminating in the creation of their own symbolic self-portrait using tempera paint.
Program Objectives
Participants will:
Understand Cultural Influence:
I can describe how culture and location influenced Frida Kahlo's artwork.
Recognize that diverse cultures offer different languages, foods, art, music, customs, and forms of shelter.
Make Interdisciplinary Connections:
I can make connections between visual art, history, and culture.
Express Through Symbols and Color:
I can use colors and symbols to express personal feelings and narratives.
Create a Self-Portrait:
I can create a self portrait using color and symbol(s) to express feelings.
I can follow directions to use tempera paint.
Celebrate Mexican Heritage:
Explore how Frida’s iconic use of hair, clothing, jewelry, and animal imagery celebrates her cultural identity.
Enhance SEL and Empowerment:
Engage in reflective discussions and journaling to deepen self-awareness, empathy, and cultural pride.
Logistics & Materials
All necessary materials are provided, including:
A copy of Frida by Jonah Winter and curated images of Frida Kahlo’s artworks
Tempera paints, brushes, palettes, and mixing cups
Heavy paper or canvas for painting
Sketch paper, pencils, and reflective journaling materials
Protective aprons or smocks
Handouts on Frida Kahlo’s life, Mexican cultural symbols (hair, clothing, jewelry, animals), and SEL reflective prompts
The venue should have tables for art creation and a comfortable area for group discussion and reflective activities.
Booking & Contact Information
To schedule a session or inquire about further details, please contact:
Meredith Arcari Luciano
Bonus Available
Participants will receive a downloadable guide on Frida Kahlo’s artistic techniques, SEL art practices, and insights into Mexican cultural symbols. This resource is designed to support ongoing creative exploration and cultural celebration beyond the session.
This program empowers participants to explore their personal and cultural identities through the lens of Frida Kahlo’s inspiring legacy, merging art, history, and social emotional learning into a dynamic, creative experience.
