Self-Portrait with Monkey

Frida Kahlo

1938

oil on Masonite

Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Frida Kahlo ’s story is one of both tragedy and perseverance. Kahlo contracted polio at the age of six. The disease left her right leg disfigured, which she hid by wearing long skirts. She later regained her strength by playing sports. In September 1925, at the age of 18, Kahlo was in a serious bus accident that placed her in a full-body cast for three months. Pain from the ordeal stayed with her for the rest of her life. Following the crash, Kahlo began to paint to alleviate her boredom. Throughout her lifetime, she made numerous self-portraits. Each provides a glimpse into the artist’s world, which was constantly in emotional flux