You can’t fail to have noticed the media coverage of the forthcoming exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum in celebration of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The exhibition entitled Frida Kahlo:Making Herself Up is dedicated to the artist’s personal effects. Happily, the exhibition coincides with a revival of interest in handicrafts, lush tropical motifs and folk – inspired design in both fashion and interiors – think of TV shows such as The Great British Sewing Bee, Kirstie’s Handmade Home and, of course, The Great British Bake Off. I think there is also a link with the whole movement towards recycling and upcycling.
On her death in 1954 Kahlo’s belongings were locked away in her former home in Mexico City called The Blue House which was built by the her father and decorated in the vivid colour by Kahlo and her partner when they moved in to the property.
This is a design style that won’t suit everyone but I think it’s great fun and it’s easy to incorporate elements. The secret is perhaps to confine it to one room where you want to feel energised or introduce a few accessories to add a quirky element to a more neutral room. This way it isn’t so obvious that you are following a trend giving it more longevity plus you can you put things away for a while then bring them out again when you want a change.
Sources include online retailer Maison Numen, the Juanita Collection from Montes & Clark or the Hacienda Collection from Andrew Martin. Look for textiles, woven baskets and even Day of The Dead ritualistic symbolism of skulls. Here are just a few things that have caught my attention.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this blog and feel inspired to introduce some of this into your décor. If you would like some advice on how to do this or advice on your interior décor generally please call 07745 876182 e mail info@homestyle4u.com or complete the enquiry form below. I would love to hear from you. I cover Cheshire and the North West.
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