Abstract

The aim of this study is to reveal the different levels of representation of invisible feelings in the work of Frida Kahlo. In order to express these feelings, in some paintings, the artist uses visible objects, such as tears – which become the first level of representation of the invisible. In other paintings, however, she uses internal organs of the human body to represent invisible pain or suffering. These organs are hidden from the eye and are therefore invisible. There are two categories within this second level: the first one consists of internal organs traditionally used to represent invisible feelings in the European culture, such as the skull. The second category embraces organs used especially by Frida, like the womb. The study observes how her life had made this physically broken, but mentally strong artist to cut open her own body to show it to the world, representing feelings that only a woman can feel, but nobody can see.