Show off your your inner 'Frida-nesse' at the DIA's new opening

Next month, the DIA will unveil its long-planned exhibition based on the time the Mexican artists Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo spent in Detroit. The exhibition looks at photos, anecdotes, and the artwork the two created over the course of April 1932 to March 1933.

While Rivera spent his time painting his famous "Detroit Industry" murals and schmoozing with Henry Ford, Kahlo was apparently miserable, a stranger in a strange land. But her time in Detroit wound up being highly influential to not only her painting style but her iconic fashions as well. As Serena Maria Daniels notes over at Hour, at this time Frida started making her fashion into her artwork, wearing brightly colored skirts and headdresses. "The fashion was her way to differentiate herself in a still largely provincial, industrial town," Daniels writes.

That's why the DIA is encouraging guests to let their Frida flags fly at an opening reception to the new exhibit. We got an invitation encouraging a colorful dress code: "Ladies, break out the Frida wear ... rebozos, bright hues, flowers. Show off your inner Frida-nesse!"

The party is from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday, March 14 at the Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Tickets are $25 each (plus $3.50 processing fee).

In addition to previewing the exhibition before the general public, there will be appetizers, a cash bar, and entertainment by Mariachi Gallos de Oro and Ballet Folklorico Moyocoyani Izel.

Tickets can be purchased here, or by calling 313-833-4005.

Speaking of Kahlo, one notable omission from the show is her famous (and disturbing) painting called "My Birth," created while in Detroit. Apparently pop star Madonna is its current owner, but didn't wind up loaning the important painting for the exhibit. Read more about it over at The Detroit News.