In this artwork, how is the Impact discussed?
Hispanic studies professor Sarah M. Misemer suggests that Kahlo’s multi-racial representation seen in The Two Fridas reflects the impact that the colonial era had on racial demographics in Mexico. Additionally, Misemer argues that Kahlo’s representation of herself as a multi-racial individual serves as a cultural symbol for the Mexican nation.Kahlo’s work has inspired the creation of cultural products. For example, the painting The Two Fridas inspired a play called Las Dos Fridas (1998) by Bárbara Córcega, María del Carmen Farías, and Abraham Oceransky. In this play, two separate actresses play different versions of Kahlo named Espina (Thorn) and Flor (Flower). Although these characters have different names, they are supposed to be the same person. Espina wears a Tehuana outfit, like the indigenous representation of Kahlo seen in the painting, whereas Flor wears a suit from the 1940s. In the original play, Espina and Flor were played by two of its writers, Córcega and Farías.The play begins with Flor asking Espina about Kahlo’s identity. Espina then explains different aspects of Kahlo’s identity, such as her gender and career. Historians argue that these different understandings of Kahlo’s identity that Espina and Flor carry suggest the multi-faceted nature of Kahlo’s own identity. This multifaceted nature of her identity is expanded through the set of the play; a sketch of a self-portrait of Kahlo is a prop on the stage. The play then moves to the two versions of Kahlo acting out various scenes from her own life, with an emphasis on her struggles in her marriage with Rivera, who had numerous affairs with other women during their marriage. Specifically, the play addresses the shame Kahlo feels as well as the denial she engages in regarding Rivera’s affairs. The play also highlights how Kahlo used her physical pain to manipulate Rivera into staying with her. Misemer’s studies suggest that Kahlo’s medical conditions and pain prevented Rivera from ending their relationship.
Abraham Oceransky María del Carmen Farías Mexican Sarah M. Misemer Bárbara Córcega Tehuana