The eternal fascination of Frida and Diego

THE complex relationship between Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and muralist Diego Rivera will be the focus of ArtsNational Northern Rivers’ next lecture on July 14.

In Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera: A Volatile Relationship, art historian Maria Chester will explore the story of the two eccentric artists and political activists and how their love, health, passions, and art were intricately linked.

Chester’s focus is on the artworks of Kahlo and Rivera and how their creations were profoundly connected to the political environment, their respective severe health issues, and their passionate but fraught relationship.

The two artists met in 1928 and were both highly active members of the Communist Party.

A leading figure in the Mexican muralist movement, Rivera was already a star when he met the fledgling artist, 20 years his junior.

They often collaborated on projects, and their complex, tempestuous union is a long-studied area for academics, writers, artists and filmmakers.

ArtsNational Northern Rivers offers members and guests a series of eight one-hour illustrated presentations throughout the year by international and Australian experts selected for their specialist knowledge and expertise.

Recent lectures have included Who Dunit? Agatha Christie’s Life and Crimes in London and Sister of Tragedy: The Brontes and their Works.

The forthcoming August lecture, The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam: Rembrandt’s Night Watch and Much, Much More, will be presented by Sophie Oosterwijk.

Annual memberships to the series are available for $155 for singles and $270 for couples. Guests can attend individual events for $25.

The Monday evening lecture at Bangalow A&I Hall begins at 6.30 pm, with pre-lecture drinks available from 6.00 pm.

For tickets, memberships and information, email [email protected] or visit artsnational.au/societies/northernrivers