A Love Letter to Kolucan

Some creative collaborations become more than a project. They become an experience, a gathering place and a piece of your city’s story.

For me, Kolucan was all of those things.

This Sarasota restaurant was an elevated Mexican dream, filled with family recipes, culinary artistry, vibrant color and their Frida lounge in particular was the kind of atmosphere that made you want to stay awhile. Together, we dreamed up the Frida Lounge: a colorful little Sarasota mecca dedicated to the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.

It was an absolute honor to create the glowing centerpiece of the space – a giant portrait of Frida surrounded by dimensional florals and illuminated by an embedded neon sign bearing the words:

“Doctor, if you let me drink this tequila, I promise not to drink at my funeral.”

The piece illuminated the lounge and created the ultimate Frida-inspired atmosphere. Alongside it hung a curated collection of my Frida portraits, many of which I painted live during Kolucan’s First Frida Friday events throughout its first year in business. Those evenings were such a special meeting of art, food, music and community.

Frida has long been a beloved muse for artists. Her unmistakable appearance is filled with color and symbolism, but it is the woman behind the image who continues to captivate us. Her story held tremendous pain, resilience, vulnerability and power – and she transformed all of it into art. That is something worth celebrating.

While it saddens me that my Frida paintings will no longer grace the walls of Kolucan, the artwork has now returned to my studio and is ready to begin its next chapter. The original paintings are available, along with prints at a variety of price points. Whether you have loved one particular Frida from afar or simply want to bring a little of that color, strength and spirit into your space, there is a version for nearly every budget.

Kolucan, we will miss you.

Thank you for sharing your family recipes, your culinary artistry and all of the incredible atmosphere and memories. Thank you for welcoming my work so wholeheartedly and giving me a place to paint, connect and celebrate another woman artist whose story continues to inspire the world.

It was a privilege to be your featured artist, and an honor to help bring the Frida Lounge to life.

XO,
Lex