Frida Kahlo Flashcards
Composition/arrangement
1) Triangular arrangement- seated in centre- makes sitter main focal point.
2) The sky- distant in background- subtle effect/another enviroment
Media handling/ techniques
1) A lot of detail- achieved in a defined, controlled way- effectively shows facial features
2) Use of oil paint- carefully blended and layered- realism
Subject Matter
1) Headdress- decorative/feminine- shows off traditional Mexican style.
2) Thorns & birds around shoulders- symbolise pain- link to deteriorating health concerns.
Tone
1) Facial features- direct light source- shows realism and shape of face
2) Animals- contrast from lighter tones- importance
Mood and atmosphere
1) Rich warm lighting- on skin tone- highlight warmth of native Mexico.
2) Leaves and foliage- bright and eye-catching background- comforting environment
Style
1) Realistic style- seen through considered, small brushstrokes- realistic
2) Contemporary style- photographic approach- modern effect
Scale
1) Self portrait- dominates full canvas- retains viewers focus on main subject.
2) Leaves in background- large and simplified- creates contrast in size to Kahlo
Pattern
1) Leaves- overlap- natural repeating pattern
2) Dragonflies and butterflies- decorative- happy and playful pattern
Shape & Form
1) Leaves and foliage- clustered- natural shapes
2) animals- soft, curvy shapes- contrast to colour and appearance
Texture
1) White top- longer, blended brushstrokes- realism in folds of t-shirt.
2) Brushstrokes- thin, short- shows care in achieving realism.
Colour
1) Warm yellow/brown tone- draws attention to centre- highlights appearance of features.
2) Black- animals and hair- contrast and draws viewers eye around the centre of the canvas.
Line
1) Thorns- fine and thin lines- shows details in shape of thorns
2) Headdress- small, wavy, controlled lines- folds of headdress and form of braids
