The exhibition is of startling diversity. From over 250 original submissions 54 artists were selected ranging in age from art students to very senior citizens; from widely ranging backgrounds, culture and education. Working in media as different as Video, Ceramic, Painting, Textile, Photography, Glass, and even Knitted Steel Wool; the exhibition literally covers from cradle to grave.
The artists have written about their work and the often very moving and illuminating texts are shown alongside the work as well as in the catalogue.
(As illustrated) Anna Sherwin's crisp digital print juxtaposes 19th Century mother and child images with screens showing foetal scans. Helen Cornish Smith's installation of miniature porcelain cradles speaks of the fragility of life. By contrast, textile artist Sue Coulson's 'Self Defence' shoes, redolent of an Alan Jones painting, with steel spikes for heels refer to power dressing for the working woman. The powerful black and white images of Greek photographer, Katerina Kalogeraki document the lives of elderly immigrants to London whilst South African photographer Michelle Sank closely observes the miseries and the joys of retired life by the seaside.
The unusual open submission policy affords the opportunity for young artists, those who have had careers breaks or come to art in maturity to show their work. Artist Vicky Brand, who shows a moving double portrait of herself and her daughter 'Bloodties', (PV card)) only began painting after thirty years as a nurse and midwife.
The Foundation for Women's Art (formerly Museum of Women's Art) is a small charitable organization started in 1993, which promotes art by women. It is run entirely by volunteers on a shoestring budget with no outside funding. The FWA and our collaborator on this project, Orleans House Gallery in Twickenham, are both widely recognized for their innovative exhibitions and education programmes.
The exhibition is curated by Monica Petzal, Exhibitions Director of FWA and Rachel Tranter of Orleans House.
The Education and Outreach Programme includes a related seminar at The Women's Library on June 15th
It is accompanied by a full colour catalogue, (price £8) with essays by selectors and details of all the artists.
Click here to view the main FWA site.
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