The Frida Kahlo exhibition everyone's talking about and yes, it's an Aussie first.

Thanks to our brand partner, Bendigo Tourism

Bendigo is the place to be this autumn. 

Over the next four months, the regional city is coming to life with Fiesta Bendigo, a celebration of the exclusive Bendigo Art Gallery exhibition, Frida Kahlo: In her own image.

For the first time in Australia, visitors will have the opportunity to explore a rare collection of the iconic artist's personal belongings.

What is Frida Kahlo: In her own image?

Frida Kahlo: In her own image is a must-see exhibition presenting an intimate view of the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.

Featuring personal items never before seen in Australia, the exhibition highlights the artistic and personal influences that shaped Kahlo's worldview and lasting legacy in art and society.

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Come for the…

The impressive range of items being exhibited.

Frida Kahlo: In her own image is unlike any previous Frida Kahlo exhibition in Australia.

The exhibition's items, which are on loan from Museo Frida Kahlo in Mexico, present an intimate perspective on Kahlo's art, personal life and carefully crafted image.

Key highlights of the exhibition include:

• A selection of traditional Mexican garments worn by Kahlo.

• A collection of Kahlo's favourite cosmetics.

• The poignant painting 'Self Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird', which is on display in Australia for the first time and is considered one of Kahlo's best works, as well as the painting 'Still Life with Parrot and Fruit'.

• A selection of Kahlo's original drawings, including a self-portrait titled 'Appearances Can Be Deceiving'.

• Colourfully painted medical corsets that Kahlo decorated and wore after undergoing spinal surgery following a tragic bus accident that left her with lifelong injuries.

Stay for the…

The festivities across Bendigo.

When visiting Frida Kahlo: In her own image, make sure to allow plenty of time to explore beautiful Bendigo as well!

While the exhibition is running, the regional city will be taken over by more than 90 Mexican-inspired events and experiences as part of Fiesta Bendigo.

Expect to find multiple murals and colourful installations around the regional city throughout Fiesta Bendigo, while local businesses will be adorned with bunting to mark the festivities.

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As part of the celebrations, over 20 local Bendigo venues are competing in the Taco Trail, with venues serving up creative and tasty tacos for the public to vote on.

The best part? By voting for your favourite taco, you can go into the draw to win a VIP weekend for two in Bendigo worth $1,000.

Plus, on May 2, Hargreaves Mall in the heart of Bendigo will be transformed into a Mexican fiesta for the Fiesta Bendigo Street Party.

It will be a full day of Mexican music, food, culture and fashion with fun for the whole family. Explore the market stalls, grab a bite to eat at one of the food stalls, or participate in free activities for kids including pinatas, face painting and craft workshops.

Other events happening throughout Fiesta Bendigo include a tequila-making class, Mexican cooking classes, a floral headpiece workshop, the La Musica Tram and so much more.

What's so unique about it?

The items showcased at the Frida Kahlo: In her own image exhibition — including personal belongings, clothing and medical items — are on loan from the Museo Frida Kahlo in Mexico for the very first time in Australia.

Following her death in 1954, Frida Kahlo's husband, Diego Rivera, established the Museo Frida Kahlo in Kahlo's honour at her family home.

Upon establishing the museum, Rivera stipulated that Kahlo's most personal belongings were to be locked in a bathroom in her home, away from public view, for 15 years. However, it ended up being 50 years until the museum began cataloguing the contents of the bathroom.

It's incredibly rare for these precious items to leave the Museo Frida Kahlo. In fact, each item requires the permission of the Mexican government to be temporarily removed from Kahlo's former family home.

Image: Elijah Clarke.

Why does Mamamia recommend it?

With such an incredible array of items on display, Frida Kahlo: In her own image is an absolute must-see exhibition.

And with the exhibition being held alongside the Fiesta Bendigo celebrations, it's the perfect opportunity to experience everything Bendigo has to offer by checking out local artist installations, attending pop-up events and sampling delicious food across Bendigo's local venues and eateries.

Both Frida Kahlo: In her own image and Fiesta Bendigo are perfect for singles, couples, families and groups of friends, making it the ideal destination for your next getaway.

Okay, what's the practical stuff I need to know?

Frida Kahlo: In her own image is running at Bendigo Art Gallery from March 15, 2025 until July 13, 2025.

The gallery is open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm and you can purchase tickets to the exhibition in advance online.

Fiesta Bendigo is also running from March 15 until July 13, with various events and experiences taking place each week. You can find the full program for Fiesta Bendigo here.

If you're a foodie, you can also find information on all the mouthwatering tacos on offer in Bendigo's Taco Trail here.

If you're thinking of staying in Bendigo while attending Frida Kahlo: In her own image, check out the range of curated Fiesta Bendigo accommodation packages available here.

Book your tickets to Frida Kahlo: In her own image, running at Bendigo Art Gallery from March 15, 2025 until July 13, 2025.

Feature Image: Elijah Clarke/Instagram/@bendigoartgallery.

Bendigo - a city rich in creativity, culture, and connection. With iconic attractions like Bendigo Art Gallery, we celebrate bold ideas, artistic expression, and unforgettable experiences that make Bendigo a truly unique destination.