What Would Frida Do?

A Guide to Living Boldly

by Arianna Davis

4.6(755 ratings)

12 min read

Brief overview

This book celebrates the life and essence of Frida Kahlo, a woman whose art, style, and personal courage continue to inspire. It delves into her resilience in the face of pain, her relentless passion for self-expression, and the vibrant way she embraced culture, relationships, and activism. By journey’s end, you’ll see how her story sparks the boldness we all hold within.

Introduction

From the moment we peer into Frida Kahlo’s world, we step into a realm of vibrant colors and unflinching self-portraits. Yet these vivid images don’t merely showcase her artistry; they reveal her fearless outlook on life itself. She never shied away from her scars—physical or emotional—but instead transformed them into compelling stories. The more we learn about her, the more we realize that beneath the floral crowns and dramatic brows lies an unbreakable spirit.

Through accidents, heartbreaks, and fierce love affairs, Frida’s life was a cycle of reinvention. She blended her Mexican heritage with her own rebellious twist, forging an unforgettable personal style. Even her last days echoed triumph, as she attended her own solo exhibition by showing up in her bed, refusing to let disability overshadow her moment.

Frida stands as proof that strength can emerge from the darkest corners. Her art became a vessel for her innermost truths. She laughed in the face of conventions, wore her pain with courage, and believed in her own power to captivate a room. That’s why her story continues to resonate, decades on.

Sometimes the best way to honor our hardships is to paint them into something that sets us free.

Life in Full Color

When we think of Frida Kahlo, we picture her canvases flooded with fiery hues, luscious fruit, and swirling emotions. This bold palette reflects the brilliant spirit that guided her. She regarded her body—scars and all—as part of the art. In diaries, she teased that her pain might destroy her, yet she decorated its edges with bright reds and greens.

For Frida, color was more than adornment; it was a language. Every skirt, ribbon, and bedspread hummed with hidden meaning. From Aztec-inspired reds to sunburst yellows, she let Mexico’s cultural legacy shine right back at the world. She made even hospital rooms feel like living murals.

I paint myself because I am so often alone, because I am the person I know best.

In a sense, color was her defiance. She filled the gray corners of her life with brightness, sending a message that joy remains possible even when you ache. By blazing her own path, she showed us that each of us can orchestrate our own vivid tapestry, no matter what storms we endure.

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What is What Would Frida Do? about?

Arianna Davis's "What Would Frida Do?: A Guide to Living Boldly" explores the life and philosophy of the iconic artist, Frida Kahlo—a figure celebrated for her unyielding spirit and vivid artistry. Known for her daring self-portraits and resilience in the face of adversity, Kahlo's life was a testament to living authentically and embracing one's identity wholeheartedly. Davis delves into Frida's dedication to transforming pain into creative expression, offering readers an inspiring framework to find their own path of bold authenticity.

At the heart of Frida Kahlo's story lies a relentless pursuit of self-awareness and self-expression. Even amidst personal challenges—such as chronic pain, turbulent relationships, and cultural strife—Frida infused her life and work with vibrant colors and unapologetic confidence. This book highlights the power of authenticity in art and life, encouraging readers to reflect on their own identity and cultivate a life true to their essence. Through Frida's lens, Davis illustrates how embracing vulnerability, style, and passion can lead to a bold and fulfilling existence.

"What Would Frida Do?" is more than just a biography; it is a roadmap to channeling adversity into artistic brilliance and self-discovery. Arianna Davis weaves Kahlo's legacy into a powerful message for contemporary readers, celebrating courage, creativity, and the transformative potential of authenticity. By the book's conclusion, readers will have the tools to harness their individual strengths and follow Frida's lead toward a life of boundless daring and expression.

Review of What Would Frida Do?

"What Would Frida Do?" by Arianna Davis is a captivating exploration of the life and essence of Frida Kahlo, one of the most enigmatic figures in art history. Davis's prose wields the same vibrancy and boldness that characterized Kahlo's work, presenting a narrative that is as evocative as it is informative. This book, both a tribute and a manual, offers readers profound insights into channeling challenges into creative expression.

The key strength of this book lies in its ability to encapsulate Frida's indomitable spirit—her refusal to be subdued by life's difficulties—while providing practical takeaways that resonate on a personal level. Davis thoughtfully structures Frida's story into lessons that foster confidence, embrace vulnerability, and challenge readers to cultivate their own unique self-awareness. The writing style is engaging and accessible, making even the most intricate ideas relatable without sacrificing intellectual depth.

Designed for a diverse audience, "What Would Frida Do?" resonates with artists, creatives, and anyone seeking inspiration to live boldly. The themes explored hold relevance in a rapidly evolving world, offering a reminder that self-discovery and authenticity remain timeless pursuits. Davis's work is an eloquent ode to Kahlo's legacy and earns a sincere recommendation for readers ready to explore the profound intersections of art, identity, and resilience.

Who should read What Would Frida Do??

Artists and Creatives: Individuals in artistic professions or hobbies will find inspiration in Frida's fearless self-expression and boundary-pushing creativity.
Self-Improvement Seekers: Those on a journey towards self-discovery and personal growth can learn from Frida's embrace of vulnerability and authenticity.
Feminists and Activists: Readers passionate about social justice and women's empowerment will resonate with Frida's advocacy for identity and self-ownership.
Cultural Enthusiasts: Individuals interested in Mexican culture and history will appreciate the rich cultural context woven into Frida's life and work.
People Facing Adversity: Anyone navigating life's challenges can draw strength from Frida's resilience and ability to transform pain into powerful creativity.

About the author

Arianna Davis is an editorial director, author, and entertainment expert. She holds a journalism degree from Penn State University and has extensive experience in digital media, including roles as the Editorial Director of TODAY Digital and Senior Director of Editorial and Strategy at Oprah Daily. She has written for various publications such as New York Magazine, Glamour, and MarieClaire, and has interviewed notable figures like Hillary Clinton and Oprah Winfrey. Her book, "What Would Frida Do?: A Guide to Living Boldly," explores Frida Kahlo's life and spirit to inspire readers to live boldly.