Subject Matter/ Imagery

• She is choosing to paint physical pain being inflicted to symbolise the invisible pain she feels within.
• The imagery of the thorn necklace digging into Frida's neck represents the constant pain she has had to endure in her life, particularly in her relationship with Diego.
• The cat has an arched back with its ears back, symbolising Frida's internalised emotions.
• The pet monkey on her left shoulder is known to be a gift from Diego her husband, symbolising Diego himself in the painting and the pain he has caused her.
• The black cat over her right shoulder is a traditional symbol of bad luck, which could be reference to her divorce, or the bus crash she was in earlier in life.