Frida Kahlo’s exhibition design revealed by architects Gibson Thornley and theatre designer Tom Scutt

Date
22 June 2018

Frida Kahlo’s exhibition design space has been revealed by its designers and architects. The exhibition, titled Kahlo: Making Her Self Up currently showing at the V&A is a landmark look at the life and work of the artist Frida Kahlo. Today, images revealing the craft and design behind the project have been released.

The exhibition showcases Kahlo’s possessions from her home (the Blue House) on the outskirts of Mexico City, which have never before been exhibited outside of her home country. Featuring a number of key self-portraits alongside Kahlo’s costumes, medical corsets, jewellery, accessories, photographs and letters. The space has been curated and designed by Gibson Thornley Architects and theatre designer Tom Scutt who have revealed digital renderings of the space, alongside models and photographs of the finished space.

The exhibition begins with an inverted image of Frida in her bed and explores her life through blue light tunnels, and cloisters of arches designed to reference the patterns of Tehuanan dress. The gallery culminates in a re-imagined Blue House, where she was born, lived and eventually died. The exhibition aims for visitors to experience Mexico during 1920-1930 and is punctuated with personal photographic collections and immersive AV experiences.

Matt Thornley, director at Gibson Thornley Architects, said: “The development of the exhibition with Tom and the V&A has been an enriching experience for our studio. It promises to offer a unique window into the life of Frida Kahlo, exploring her life and work in a sensitive and personal way.”

Tom Scutt, theatre designer, who regularly works with The Royal Court theatre, Donmar Warehouse and The National Theatre says: “This has been an extraordinary experience and a true privilege to provide the framework through which London will be able to access the special belongings of Frida Kahlo. We hope we have helped transport these incredible items across the water from Mexico and offer them up with a fitting celebration of a unique life.”

Kahlo: Making Her Self Up runs at the Victoria and Albert Museum until 4 November 2018.

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