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15 homeware buys inspired by the art of Frida Kahlo
Ahead of a major exhibition of Kahlo’s work (and that of those she influenced) at Tate Modern, we take a moment to explore this fearless artist’s impact beyond the canvas and on our homes
More than one third of Frida Kahlo’s paintings are self-portraits, but this is not an act of ego. Her works are thick with imagery – acts of constructing, rather than promoting, the self. From her braided hair and bold brow that spoke to her rejection of European beauty ideals and a connection to her Mexican heritage to the use of nature motifs that speak to deeper meanings pulled from folklore, Kahlo tells an inspiring story through her art of self-expression against all odds. What better inspiration could there be to express yourself in your home?
‘Danza T-Table’, Bosa
Designer and artist Jaime Hayon’s expressive painterly lines are a beautiful show of self expression. Here, they decorate a ceramic table that would make the perfect addition to a summery room. £1,495, artemest.com
‘Blush Face Vine’ plate, Hay
The work of another artist, this time Massachusetts-based Emma Kohlmann, this plate brings personality to the table. In a modern day nod to Kahlo’s inspirations Kohlmann also looks to folkloric traditions when creating. £45, selfridges.com
‘Emmi Cord’ outdoor chair, Minotti
The leafy pattern of this outdoor chair by designer Hannes Peer for the luxury Italian furniture brand has a more minimalist take on tropical motifs. Approx £7,305, minotti.com
‘Hodgkin’ table lamp, Heal’s
The vibrancy of the glossy green of this lamp‘s ceramic base is reminiscent of the colours used by Kahlo. It’s a bold piece, but one that could be easily integrated into any home. £135, heals.com
‘Flor’ dinner plate, Casa Latina
Crafted in a small town in Antioquia, this hand-painted plate celebrates Colombia’s rich ceramic heritage. The glaze has been fired three times to achieve this richness of colour. £75, casalatina.co.uk
‘Savannah’ cushion, House of Hackney
Animals often featured symbolically in Frida Kahlo’s work. The simplest way to introduce them into your home is with animal print and cheetah is a great alternative to leopard-print. For every purchase, the brand donates to The Land Trust to protect big cats and more. £145, houseofhackney.com
‘Leaf’ plate, Daylesford
Hand-painted in India, this design has a naive quality to the brushwork that will give your table a painterly feel. £26, daylesford.com
Raffia tray, La Double J
Woven raffia is very on trend this summer and a traditional skill that speaks to the same dedication to heritage Kahlo shows. The green edging of this design elevates it. £240, ladoublej.com
‘Foret Foliage’ dinner plate by Herend, Bonadea
Hungarian brand Herend has been making porcelain plates for the world’s most privileged clients for almost 200 years. This hand-painted design is a twist on the traditional ‘Rothschild Bird’ pattern. £180, bonadea.com
Tirso’ trimming, Manuel Canovas
Inspired by traditional kilim weaves, this trim will add a bright and decorative touch to upholstery, cushions or curtains. Its tassels are delectably playful. £96 per m, colefax.com
‘Leafy’ dinner plate, Nina Campbell
Not a fan of all-over pattern? If you want your recipes to do the talking then keep the decoration to the edge of the plate. This design has just enough greenery to delight. £79.50, ninacampbell.com
‘Jingle Jungle’ rug, Ruggable
the late fashion icon Iris Apfel was as much a lover of the symbolism of animals as Frida Kahlo – her design for machine-washable rug brand Ruggable is a veritable menagerie. £429, ruggable.co.uk
‘Run Amok’ fabric, Dedar
Zebras, monkeys, snakes, and toucans are hidden within the abstract embroidery of this textural satin. The coloured thread is fine, but its vibrancy lifts this textile – especially in the ‘Jungle’ colourway (pictured). £366 per m, dedar.com
‘Grand Tour’ dinner plate, L’Objet
Pietra dura-inspired botanicals are given an extra luxurious edge with touches of 24-karat gold. The abstract nature of the florals makes this an artistic choice for the table on special occasions. £145, uk.l-objet.com
‘Moon Garden’ wallpaper, House of Hackney
This is the forest, but seen through a truly fantastical lens that Kahlo would be proud of. Verdant plants, swirling trees, fantastical creatures… consider this design for a powder room with surrealist impact. £195 per roll, houseofhackney.com
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