The discovery of the only known recording of Frida Kahlo’s voice is a momentous occasion for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The National Sound Library of Mexico recently revealed the long-lost audio of the iconic Mexican painter, which had eluded researchers for decades.

The artist, known for her deeply personal and emotive art, is celebrated worldwide, but until now, her voice was an enigma. Now, thanks to the unexpected find, the world can finally hear the woman behind the powerful imagery that has captured the hearts of millions.

A Surprising Find at the National Sound Library

Frida Kahlo passed away in 1954, leaving behind a legacy of vivid, surreal paintings and an iconic image that is immediately recognizable today. Her face has become a symbol of strength, creativity, and resilience, frequently seen on everything from fashion accessories to art galleries. Yet, despite her widespread fame, there had never been a known recording of her speaking—until recently.

The breakthrough came courtesy of the National Sound Library of Mexico. While reviewing old recordings from the radio show El Bachiller, they stumbled upon an audio clip that contained what is believed to be the only surviving recording of Kahlo’s voice. This show, which aired its first episode in 1955, featured a variety of personalities, with its host Álvaro Gálvez y Fuentes, also known as “The Bachelor,” interviewing artists and intellectuals of the time.

The audio was part of a collection of more than 1,300 tracks that the library is in the process of digitizing. While experts continue to verify the recording, the evidence seems compelling. The original label on the track stated that the voice belonged to an artist who had “no longer existed,” which lines up with Kahlo’s passing in 1954.

The Voice Behind the Icon: What We Hear

So, what does Frida Kahlo’s voice sound like? The two-minute clip, which was played during the announcement of the discovery, reveals a lively and robust tone. This was a stark contrast to what many may have imagined, given the solemn and intense nature of her artwork.

In the clip, Kahlo recites a portion of an essay she penned titled Portrait of Diego, which was a tribute to her husband, the famous muralist Diego Rivera. The segment was part of a 1949 exhibition at the Palace of Fine Arts in Mexico City, celebrating Rivera’s 50-year career. In her words, Kahlo paints a vivid image of Rivera’s eyes, describing them as “high, dark, extremely intelligent and big”—eyes that “almost come out of their sockets” due to swollen eyelids.

The essay offers a rare glimpse into her relationship with Rivera, which was as turbulent as it was artistic. Her powerful description reveals a loving yet critical portrait of the man who influenced much of her work.

The Significance of the Discovery

This discovery has not only piqued the interest of art lovers but also sparked conversations about how Kahlo’s voice aligns with the image that the world has crafted of her. Photographer Gisèle Freund once described Kahlo’s voice as “melodious and warm,” a description that rings true when listening to the recording. It adds another layer of complexity to the figure who has been reduced to an image in popular culture.

Though the recording is brief, its emotional depth is undeniable. The fact that it came from a rare radio broadcast only increases its cultural value. There was never any prior documentation of Kahlo speaking, so this recording is invaluable for historians and art scholars alike.

As experts continue to analyze the audio, there is hope that more recordings from the El Bachiller show may be uncovered, potentially offering further insights into Kahlo’s life and times.

Kahlo’s Enduring Legacy and What Comes Next

Frida Kahlo’s influence stretches far beyond her art. Her distinct persona, defying the gender norms of her time and embracing her indigenous roots, has made her a feminist icon. Her self-portraits, often imbued with themes of pain and identity, resonate with generations of admirers.

The discovery of her voice reminds us of how fragmented our understanding of historical figures can be. Though Kahlo’s paintings and photographs have immortalized her, hearing her voice brings a new sense of intimacy to her legacy.

With the National Sound Library’s ongoing efforts to digitize and preserve historical recordings, there’s a chance that this is just the beginning. If further recordings of Kahlo or other influential figures from this period are uncovered, it could reshape our perception of mid-20th-century Mexican culture.