My wife is quick to point out that I was a Frida Kahlo – Diego Rivera fan way before they became popular icons. It is a fact. Their lives were so complex and compelling that they have been embraced, admired and talked about for reasons that go beyond their art – which could have certainly been enough.
Of course their origins are pure Mexicano. Diego María de la Concepción Juan Nepomuceno Estanislao de la Rivera y Barrientos Acosta y Rodríguez – his name alone ellicts curiosity. And her tragic story defining much of her art is quite dramatic.
In the last seven years of living here in Mexico we have noticed quite an increase in holiday commerce. Mexico marketers have learned from their big brother north of the border how to titillate the fancy of Mexicano consumers by way of holiday gift giving.
We are amazed at the number of cell phone sales stores scattered about the small beach town of Puerto Escondido. Those insidious little devices that have people staring into their tiny screens like zombies are a holiday gift giving bonanza for retail marketers.
Anything with Frida on it is also popular. From key chains and scarves to t-shirts and even furniture Frida’s image abounds. The other day we were having lunch just west of Puerto in the lagoon area. A group of European travelers were also at the restaurant. There was the Frida tote bag.
A souvenir tote bag large enough to accommodate a lot of other souvenirs. We thought it interesting that the imaged bag included her name in type. We supposed there still are a few who do not know who that exotic, sultry confluence-browed icon is. Around these parts the image and identity need no defining. She would make a fine gift – would she not? Stay Tuned!
