Creating Different Moods with Cushions
INSPIRED BY FRIDA KAHLO'S SELF-PORTRAIT WITH THORN NECKLACE AND HUMMINGBIRD
Frida Kahlo's Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird (1940), housed at the Harry Ransom Center, is a masterpiece that embodies rich symbolism and deep emotional expression. Kahlo's use of vivid imagery, from the thorn necklace to the hummingbird, evokes a wide range of feelings and themes. Inspired by this famous painting, I've selected a series of cushion combinations that will help you create different moods within your interior setting.
Earthy and Grounded
Kahlo's frequent use of root imagery in her paintings symbolises personal growth and connection to the earth. To create an earthy and grounded mood, choose cushions in natural tones like brown, green, and beige. Incorporate textures such as linen, velvet, and woven materials to enhance the organic feel.
Suggested Cushions:
Capucin, parme rectangular cushion backed in mauve wool. Fabric from Misia Paris, available from CB Collection @ Cushionbank
Olive green velvet cushion, Laughton with a painterly finish by Zinc Textile, available at Cushionbank
Joile Josephine in copper by Misia Paris, available from CB Collection @ Cushionbank
Arp velvet appliqué cushion by Zinc Textile, available from the Brand Selection @ Cushionbank
Peintures de paix in Minuit by Misia Paris, a super soft distressed velvet from CB Collection
Dramatic and Powerful
To evoke the dramatic and powerful elements of Kahlo's work, choose cushions in dark, moody colors like black, deep purple, and burgundy. Look for bold, striking patterns that make a statement. This combination will add a sense of intensity and strength to your interior, reflecting Kahlo's resilience and fortitude.
Suggested Cushions:
Peintures de paix in Minuit by Misia Paris, a super soft distressed velvet from CB Collection
Cayo Hueso, carbon and oatmeal motif by Misia Paris, available from CB Collection @ Cushionbank
Burgundy cushion with a striking pattern - Capucin, prune de vars rectangular cushion backed in burgundy peintures de paix. Fabric from Misia Paris, available from CB Collection @ Cushionbank
Sherpa ivory wool jacquard loom ringlet in two colors, including a glamorous version in black and ivory with charcoal wool back. Fabric from Nobilis, available from CB Collection @ Cushionbank
Option 2 Suggested Cushions:
Centon by Maison Casamance, from Brand Selection @ Cushionbank
Rime by Maison Casamance, from Brand Selection @ Cushionbank
Aurore by Maison Casamance, from Brand Selection @ Cushionbank
Caravane by Maison Casamance, from Brand Selection @ Cushionbank
Niumi Velvet by Black Edition from CB Collection @ Cushionbank
Option 3 Suggested Cushions:
Linen by Maison Casamance, from Brand Selection @ Cushionbank
Rime by Maison Casamance, from Brand Selection @ Cushionbank
Manade velvet runner by Maison Casamance, from Brand Selection @ Cushionbank
Ara by Maison Casamance, from Brand Selection @ Cushionbank
Reflective and Introspective
For a more introspective and contemplative atmosphere, choose cushions in muted, soft colors like lavender, pale blue, and soft yellow. These hues evoke a sense of calm and reflection, mirroring the emotional depth found in Kahlo's artwork. Look for cushions with delicate, understated patterns to maintain a serene ambiance.
Suggested Cushions:
Balata cushion with a tropical leaf print by Maison Casamance @ Cushionbank
Pale blue cushion Calice by Maison Casamance @ Cushionbank
Soft yellow cushion Calice by Maison Casamance @ Cushionbank
Manade velvet bed/sofa runner available in 4 colours by Maison Casamance @ Cushionbank
Sawubona, iridescent and bright embroidery with vibrant colours by Maison Casamance @Cushionbank
By carefully selecting cushions that draw inspiration from Frida Kahlo's Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird, you can create a variety of moods in your interior setting that reflect the rich symbolism and emotional depth of her artwork. Whether you prefer vibrant and bold or dramatic and powerful, these cushion combinations will help you infuse your space with the essence of Kahlo's artistic vision.