In art history, the works and achievements of women artists have long been overlooked or marginalised. The feminist avant-garde, which gained prominence from the late 1960s onwards, played a crucial role in rediscovering and recognising these often forgotten artists. This article explores how the feminist avant-garde changed the art historical narrative and brought the works of lost women artists back into the collective memory.
The forgotten women artists of history
For centuries, art history was predominantly portrayed as a male-dominated discipline. Many talented female artists, whose works were equally impressive and innovative, went unnoticed or were undervalued. This neglect was not only a product of their time, but also a result of art historical practice focussing mainly on male perspectives.
The role of the feminist avant-garde
The feminist avant-garde actively campaigned to correct these inequalities. Women artists and art historians in the movement, such as Linda Nochlin and Griselda Pollock, posed critical questions about the “why” of the absence of women in art history and called for a re-evaluation of the role of women artists. Through exhibitions, publications and lectures, they brought forgotten women artists back into the limelight and called for a fairer and more complete representation of art history.
Discovery and appreciation of forgotten works
Through these endeavours, works by artists such as Artemisia Gentileschi, Berthe Morisot and many others were rediscovered and reappraised. These women artists, who had made significant contributions in their respective eras, finally received the recognition they deserved. Their works were exhibited in museums and galleries, and their stories were retold in art historical discourses.
Long-term impact on the art world
This re-evaluation of the role of women in art has not only led to more equitable representation in museums and galleries, but has also changed the way art history is taught and studied. By bringing the stories and works of forgotten women artists to the fore, representatives of the feminist avant-garde have helped to ensure that future generations will have a more complete and diverse picture of art history.
The feminist avant-garde has played a crucial role in reappraising and re-evaluating the contributions of women artists in art history. Their influence extends far beyond art and is an important example of the need to continually challenge and expand existing narratives.