Frida & Diego at the AGO

Last week, I caught the Frida & Diego: Passion, Politics and Painting exhibit at the Art Gallery of Ontario. It was an interestingly curated exhibit that juxtaposed Kahlo’s surrealist (mostly self) portraits with Rivera’s political and symbolist style. I found most of the themes Kahlo painted about were sad, and she was definitely an emotional painter that sought therapy through painting her pain. There were a lot of pieces, many of the Kahlo painting were very colourful and emotionally evocative, but the exhibit lacked the politically motivated themes in Rivera’s work on display. I had never seen either of the artists’ paintings in real life, so it was still a treat! The exhibit closes on the 20th, so if you’re in Toronto this weekend will be your last chance.

After the exhibit, we checked out a couple other exhibits and hung out in one of my favourite spots in Toronto – La Galleria Italia.

For anyone visiting Toronto, this is a must-see. Designed by world-renowned architect, Frank Gehry, the open air space reflects on Canadian culture with its wood interior. From the outside, it almost resembles a canoe. Before, the space only had sculptures and long benches made out of cut trees where you could sit and admire the view. As of late (I haven’t been to the gallery in a year), they added an espresso bar… I guess it lives up to the Galleria Italia name. Naturally, the lofty space was named in recognition of many wealthy Italian donors.

My outfit was inspired by the wood and warmth of this special space within the gallery. I tried to mimic the earth tones, and give a little nod to Mexico with my Mexican crafted boots and little worry doll earrings. I’m wearing a tweed blazer picked up from Simons on my latest trip to Montreal. The picture doesn’t do it justice, but there are amazing gold spikes adorning the jacket. I’m also wearing a dress from Forever 21 and my trusty Frye Jane 14L boots.

I also piled on accessories, featuring some costume baubles I picked up at the Albert Cuyp market in Amsterdam, a vintage Italian gold bracelet and my favourite bag as of late…

Believe it or not, this was a flea market find for $1 at the Apsley Lions annual market. It’s leather, Made in Italy and carries a “t” monogram, which is perfect considering my nickname is Tasha. I love its tiny size and structured shape, but my favourite part is the contrast between the black leather and brown handle and adornments. It can swing both ways… black or brown.

I love visiting the AGO, sometimes to just wonder at this space and the portrait of Marchesa Luisa Casati… the woman now immortalized by the luxury evening wear brand.