Creatives need to be inspired. We must refill the creative pool that is drained every week. As a collaborative team, we decided to visit the Fresno Art Museum. The main draw was the current exhibition featuring photographs of the late Frida Kahlo. 
The Frida Kahlo (1907-1954) exhibit presents 50 photographic portraits, paintings, and letters that show photographer Nicholas Muray’s unique perspective of Frida. Murray photographed Kahlo more than any of his subjects; his portraits of her are among the most iconic images to be seen.
It was very inspiring to see these amazing photographs in person, in our backyard at the Fresno Art Museum. The photographs were taken in the `30s and `40s and are brilliantly shot and composed, and the quality of the gelatin silver process prints are tack sharp. It’s refreshing in this day and age to see photos that were developed in a darkroom
Muray’s photographs highlight Kahlo’s deep interest in her Mexican heritage, her life, and the people who were significant to her. Frida Kahlo: Through the Lens of Nickolas Muray exhibit will be displayed at the Fresno Art Museum until May 1, 2016.
There were many other exhibits that we enjoyed during our visit to the museum. One in particular was the Imaginary Worlds exhibit, which is displayed until August. The artists in this exhibit reveal imaginary worlds through their artwork. Their paintings are incredibly colorful, whimsical and engaging. This exhibit features many artists, including a Fresno State art professor, Doug Hasen, who showcases colorful works on paper.
Our creatives enjoyed this excursion so much, they wanted to tell you about it themselves. Here are some quotes from them.
Josh said, ” In the Frida exhibit, I enjoyed seeing how intimate aspects of her life directly effected her art. In regards to the other exhibits, the crazy metal sculptures made me think of packaging and how to use different materials in a three-dimensional piece. I enjoyed the Mexican Folk Art exhibit the most, partly because of the presentation with the lighting and how they painted the room.”
Peter said, “I thoroughly enjoyed the works of Nicholas Muray. His photographs of Frida were beautiful and their shared love did seem to glow from his portraits of her. As a photographer, I also strive to capture that moment where it goes beyond just a portrait and its more about capturing a connection to my subject.”
Pablo said, “I really liked how this piece used several texture layers behind the ‘flying girl.’ It used newspaper pages and an aerial view behind the peach color. It was really interesting. The screen printing was really interesting, too. It’s something I really admire and something I would like to get into in the future.”
Visit the Fresno Art Museum, or purchase a membership here. We as a community must support this museum so it can be around for many generations to enjoy.
Michele Ellus Pracy says:
As the Executive Director of FAM I thank you for visiting, enjoying your time in our Museum, encouraging others to visit and join as members, and above all sharing your experiences on social media! We appreciate the feedback!!