Thousands flock to Frida Kahlo exhibition in Coventry

An award-winning, immersive exhibition in the heart of Coventry has already attracted thousands of visitors from across the country – as it offers a magical experience this festive period.

The exhibition exploring the life and work of the iconic Mexican painter Frida Kahlo launched at The Reel Store in the former Coventry Evening Telegraph building in November and is earning rave reviews.

Visitors have described the experience as ‘mesmerising’, ‘fabulous’ and ‘beautiful’ and were transfixed by the original soundtrack, stunning visuals, and emotional narrative.

The exhibition has also been given the seal of approval by Pauline Black OBE, the lead singer of The Selecter, who has paid a visit in recent weeks and was wowed by the experience.

The exhibition enjoyed a sell-out run in Madrid, where it welcomed over 100,000 visitors. It was conceived, designed, and produced by international exhibition producer Acciona Cultura in collaboration with the Frida Kahlo Trust and combines academic research with an immersive spectacle.

The exhibition uses Kahlo’s personal diary to transport visitors straight into the world of the artist enabling visitor to understand what shaped the global icon we know today.

It is also possible to gift the experience to others this Christmas, with gift vouchers available to buy online and at The Reel Store – making a present with a difference for people of all ages.

Chris Michaels, Director, The Reel Store, said: “We are delighted by the amazing feedback from Coventry visitors, as well as the many people who have travelled from across the UK to see the show.

“The festive period is a great time for people to come into the city and pay a visit. The Life and Work of Frida Kahlo offers a magical journey through a traditional museum experience and digital spectacle.” 

The exhibition has already won three major international awards: the 'Best Experience Design 2022' at the Innovation by Design Awards Fast Company, the Red Dot Design Award in the category 'Brand and Communication Design 2022' and the Silver award for 'Best Technical Installation' at the Eventoplus Awards.

The Reel Store has been made possible by the generous support of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, Coventry City Council via the Council’s Cultural Capital Investment Fund, the Government’s Getting Building Fund through the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP), The Patrick Trust, The Linbury Trust, Edward Cadbury Charitable Trust and Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.

The Reel Store will open over the festive period apart from Saturday, December 24 to Tuesday, December 27 and on Sunday, January 1.

Tickets are available via www.coventry2021.co.uk