‘Diaries of Frida Kahlo’ to open in Istanbul

The exhibition "The Diaries of Frida Kahlo," inspired by the Mexican artist's personal diaries, will open to art enthusiasts for the first time in Türkiye on Sept. 28 at the historic Grand Pera building as part of the Istanbul Cultural Road Festival.

Featuring both physical and digital elements, the exhibition offers a deep insight into Kahlo's inner world and artistic journey. Curated by Cengiz Ayyıldız and Koray Özdemir, with Ayşe Demirci and Dilay Duman as co-curators, the exhibition enables visitors to engage directly with Kahlo's thoughts, emotions and sources of inspiration reflected in her diaries.

Ayyıldız, in a statement to state-run Anadolu Agency, highlighted that the Cultural Road Festivals are among the world's leading events, expressing his satisfaction with being part of the festival. He emphasized that this is the first time the exhibition is being held both globally and in Türkiye.

"It's a very special project, to be realized in a very special venue. It is an experiential exhibition with both physical and digital works. There are new-generation technologies. We are actively using artificial intelligence, and there are interactive sections as well. It is not just a one-sided exhibition where visitors simply observe, it also 'communicates' with the visitors through special technologies," he said.

Ayyıldız stated that in addition to information about Kahlo's life, the exhibition also offers a journey into her inner world, adding that the Culture and Tourism Ministry provided significant support for the project.

Project Director Koray Özdemir noted that they are excited to bring this project to life, saying, "Frida Kahlo is not only a great artist but also an important icon with her character, stance and...