(MAPLEWOOD, NJ) -- In honor of Hispanic Heritage month, The Maplewood Film Society will host the first area screening of the new documentary Frida Kahlo on Sunday, October 10th at 5:00pm at The Woodland in Maplewood.  Delving deeper than any film has done before, the film by Ali Ray engages with world-renowned Kahlo experts, exploring how great an artist she was. After the film, Visual Art Center of New Jersey curator Mary Birmingham will discuss the legendary artist’s life and art.

Who was Frida Kahlo? Everyone knows her, but who was the woman behind the bright colors, the big brows, and the floral crowns? The new documentary takes viewers on a journey through the life of a true icon and uncovers the truth behind her often turbulent life. Making use of the latest technology, the film offers an in-depth look at key works throughout her career.

Using letters Kahlo wrote to guide us, this definitive film reveals her deepest emotions and unlocks the secrets and symbolism contained within her art. Exhibition on Screen’s trademark combination of interviews, commentary, and a detailed exploration of her art delivers a treasure trove of color and a feast of vibrancy. This personal and intimate film offers privileged access to her works, and highlights the source of her feverish creativity, her resilience, and her unmatched lust for life, politics, men, and women.

Tickets are $15 for the film and discussion, and are available for purchase online. 

The Woodland is located at 60 Woodland Drive in Maplewood, New Jersey. Located in the heart of Maplewood Village, this Georgian Revival style mansion and adjoining auditorium have been a hub for Maplewood’s vibrant cultural and civic life for over eight decades. It is managed by Maplewood Division of Arts & Culture.

20 complimentary tickets will be reserved for students, as well as those where the purchase of the ticket would be a burden. For complimentary tickets contact: MaplewoodFilmSociety@gmail.com with the Subject Line: FRIDA.

Safety Guidelines: masks are required unless seated to eat or drink.

Maplewood and South Orange Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 through October 15 to honor the influence and achievements of Hispanic and LatinX Americans, and to embrace a culture that has enriched our lives.

The Maplewood Film Society was concepted by Lisa Mainardi, Maplewood Division of Arts & Culture, in collaboration with Lisa Reznik, Director of The Film Society of Summit, in order to offer relevant films, documentaries and discussions to Maplewood residents and the surrounding community.

The mission of the Division of Arts & Culture, under the Community Service Department is to foster a creative community of artists and organizations, enhancing the quality of life for residents of Maplewood by ensuring that artistic and cultural experiences are inclusive and accessible to all.

The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey nurtures the capacity for personal expression, expands the creative experience, and fosters stronger communities by empowering people to see, make, and learn about art. Through exhibition, Studio School, and community programs, the Art Center engenders connection, curiosity, and creative risk-taking among its constituents.