Art is the Solution

In 1971, a rather famous art historian named Linda Nochlin published an essay entitled "Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?" (which was rather famous in and of itself). In this piece, Nochlin explains how institutional and cultural forces prevented women from engaging in the artistic world for most of Western history. Despite the valid points that Nochlin makes, the premise of her essay actually isn’t true. Since "Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?" was published, numerous women of the modern era have been recognized for their artistic genius, while at the same time art historians have rediscovered the work of many female painters who were forgotten by history. However, it is still true that the work of female artists tends to be undervalued and understudied in the art world. So, today, I’d like to introduce you to five brilliant women who definitely deserve the name Great Artists. Sofonisba Anguissola - Sofonisba Anguissola is probably the greate...

The Death of Cleopatra Source: Smithsonian American Art Museum Due to the rise of the Romantic movement and a surge of interest in Egyptian artifacts, the Pharaoh Cleopatra was a popular subject in nineteenth century art. However, there is perhaps no more impactful image of Cleopatra than Edmonia Lewis’ sculpture of the pharaoh, entitled The Death of Cleopatra. The Death of Cleopatra portrays Cleopatra’s suicide by asp bite, a popular scene in mythological art. While most artists chose to portray Cleopatra before she succumbed to the poison, Lewis depicts her in death, lying slumped in her throne. Cleopatra is commonly a highly sexualized figure in art, but Lewis’ version of the pharaoh retains her queenly elegance. Even in death, Cleopatra is commanding and dignified, draped in the pharaonic regalia. The realism of the piece received both praise and criticism when it was initially displayed, but today The Death of Cleopatra is recognized as one of the finest examples of American...