Frida Kahlo’s painting titled ‘Self-Portrait (Dedicated To Leon Trotsky)’ was completed in 1937 and is currently housed in the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington D.C. It is an oil on canvas piece which measures 30 x 24 inches and depicts Frida Kahlo herself as its subject. In the portrait, she displays her iconic unibrow and moustache, both of which represent elements of gender fluidity and self-surveillance. Through this painting, she masterfully conveys a sense of inner strength while embracing her true identity with a passionate defiance.
Kahlo’s artistic career was filled with self-portraits; representing resilient self-expression. From this particular painting to ‘Roots (Raices)’ from 1943, she used art to explore different personas, and challenge accepted norms relating to femininity and gender roles during her era. As such, Kahlo left behind a legacy for generations to come through her striking artwork that captures the spirit of singularity and creative exploration.
