Mexico City inaugurated a few days ago the Museo Casa Kahlo, known as “Casa Roja” (Red House), located in the Coyoacán district and carried by the family of Frida Kahlo. Installed in its family home, the museum offers an approach centered on the artist’s intimate and domestic dimension, in addition to the story offered by the Frida Kahlo museum in Casa Azul (blue house).
The route revolves around four themes: Frida’s childhood, family life, cultural heritage and link with Mexican muralism. The subsoil is presented as a “sanctuary” and exhibits its first study objects: microscope, collection of insects and naturalized specimens.
The different sections highlight unpublished pieces: handwritten notebooks, letters, childhood photographs taken by his father, clothes, toys, as well as his first oil painting and the only known wall fresco of the artist, recently restored in the kitchen. Its traditional outfits, characteristic of its visual identity and its attachment to Mexican culture, also occupy an important place.
Particular attention is paid to its family ties. Frida attributed his artistic taste to his father, Guillermo Kahlo, recognized photographer, whose studio and the dark room have been reconstructed. His mother, Matilde Calderon, is presented as a figure of affection. Her sister Cristina, with whom she had a narrow epistolary relationship, is also highlighted.
The museum is carried by the Fundación Kahlo, a non -profit organization created by the family in New York in 2024. The management of the museum was entrusted to Adán García Fajardo, former director of the Mexico City Museum. The Kahlo family, in particular Mara Romeo Kahlo and her daughter Mara of Anda Romeo, initiators of the project, keep an eye on the museum.
The house was bought by the parents of Frida in 1930 to get closer to her when she moved to Casa Azul. Although she did not reside there, she spent many moments there, especially during her blurring with Diego Rivera. The house remained inhabited by relatives until 2023, before its transformation into a museum. The building was renovated and adapted to the reception of the public between 2024 and 2025.
By revealing unknown aspects of the artist, Casa Roja is part of the network of places dedicated to Frida Kahlo while seeking to assert its singularity. Casa Azul, opened in 1958 and managed by the Bank of Mexico, remains the main center, while the Museo Diego Rivera is devoted to prehispanic art and Mexican muralism.
