Diego and Frida – The Revolutionary Couple
Lecture on Monday 2nd November 2026 at 2:15PM
Lecturer: John Francis
Venue: Larruperz Centre
Diego Rivera was a giant figure of the Mexican mural movement, while Frida Kahlo was best known for her self-portraits. We will explore some of Diego's murals and ideas on democratic art in Mexico City and Detroit.
In the work of Frida Kahlo, we will discover why she has become an icon of feminism and self-discovery. Recently, she became the most valued painter in Latin America after her self-portrait 'Diego and I&apos was sold for 34 million dollars at a major auction house in New York.
John Francis is an inspirational speaker who has delivered lecturers and workshops in the USA, Beijing, Malaysia and the UK. Initially trained as a painter, John was awarded the Max Beckmann Memorial Scholarship in painting in Brooklyn, New York and went on to be artist in residence for the state of Texas.
Later in his career John produced and directed several short films and animations. He has taught film, art and pedagogy at the University of Exeter, Arts University Bournemouth, University Sains Malaysia, Southwestern College, California, Brunel University, and Kingston University London.