July 21st, 2025Frido exhibition

Bendigo is once again setting the standard for regional cultural events with the exclusive Frida Kahlo: In her own image at the Bendigo Art Gallery drawing more than 100,000 domestic and international visitors.

Acting Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Gayle Tierney has announced that the exhibition – the first time this collection has been shown in Australia – drew 105,135 people to experience artworks, photographs and personal belongings of one of the most iconic artists of the 20th century.

More than 90 per cent of visitors came from outside Bendigo, with local hotels, restaurants and tourism operators reporting increased bookings and activity throughout the season – delivering a major local economic boost and reinforcing Victoria’s place as Australia’s cultural powerhouse.

The exhibition was secured by the state government and developed by Bendigo Art Gallery in partnership with Museo Frida Kahlo in Mexico and presented exclusively in Bendigo.

It explored the connection between Kahlo’s personal style, her revolutionary artwork, and the striking images that made her a global icon.

Bendigo Art Gallery has built a reputation as one of Australia’s leading cultural institutions, with past blockbusters including Elvis: Direct from Graceland, Tudors to Windsors: British Royal Portraits and Grace Kelly: Style Icon.

Since 2012, these exhibitions have brought more than 688,000 visitors to the region and generated more than $108 million in economic impact for Greater Bendigo.