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Flatiron Hot! News | March 29, 2024

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Kahlo Up Close at the New York Botanical Garden

Kahlo Up Close at the New York Botanical Garden
Kristin Travagline

Reported by the Flatiron Hot! News Editorial Staff

There are only two days left to see “Frida Kahlo: Art, Garden, Life” at the New York Botanical Garden! Don’t miss out on a wonderful opportunity to view some of Kahlo’s most exquisite paintings up close.

The exhibit includes 11 of Kahlo’s paintings and 3 drawings. One of the joys of seeing this exhibit is the intimate gallery space where the art is displayed. The room is small, a limited number of viewers are allowed in at a time, and you can get quite close to the paintings.

Among the paintings are several stunning still lifes, especially “Still Life with Parrot and Fruit.” The blues, oranges, and reds are incredibly vivid. If you look closely you can see soft texturing on the fruit that pleasingly contrasts with the vibrant blue background. All of the fruit appears warm, glowing, and sensual. You can’t help but want to touch.

Frida Kahlo exhibit at New York Botanical Gardens.

Frida Kahlo exhibit at New York Botanical Gardens.

Another highlight is the “Portrait of Luther Burbank,” which is the first piece in the show. This painting really illuminates Kahlo’s interest in and appreciation for plant life, which the Botanical Garden explores.

However, the crown jewel of the exhibit is “Self Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird,” which depicts Kahlo with her pet monkey on her right shoulder and a black cat on her left. Her hair, braided atop her head, is adorned with purple butterflies and dragonflies. Verdant, tropical plants rise behind her head. A necklace of twisty thorns adorns her neck, from which a single hummingbird hangs. There is something magical and almost entrancing about this painting. I circled the exhibit three times, always lingering to savor this piece.

Haupt Conservatory, New York Botanical Gardens.

Haupt Conservatory, New York Botanical Gardens.

In addition to the art exhibit, the Botanical Garden has transformed the beautiful Haupt Conservatory into a reimagining of Kahlo’s beloved workshop, Casa Azul. Filled with lush Mexican plants, the conservatory immerses you even more deeply in the life, mind, and passion of the artist.

Tonight is the final “Frida al Fresco” evening, which takes place from 6:30-11:00 p.m. The last entry is at 8 p.m. This event includes live music, performance, and a complimentary Modelo beer or Jose Cuervo margarita.

The Botanical Garden will have extended hours on Saturday, October 31st until 8 p.m. The exhibit closes at 5 p.m. on Sunday.

If you can’t make it to the exhibit, the New York Botanical Garden is sill the perfect place to spend a lovely autumn afternoon. With more than 250 acres, there is plenty of room to wander. Some favorites include the Rockefeller Rose Garden, Native Plant Garden, and waterfall. Although there are countless scenic picnic spots, there is a cafe, restaurant, and outdoor bar where you can treat yourself to a Kahlo-inspired margarita.