“Dreamers are those who have achieved in love and life, because it is a dream that got them there.” ~Cindy Sherman, artist photographic self-portraits
As we celebrate International Women's Day and Women's History Month this March, I would like to take a moment to shine a light on Australian Women Artists who have made significant contributions to the world of art. From colonial times to the present day, women have played an important role in shaping the Australian art scene.
In this blog, I will take a closer look at some of the most influential and inspiring
women artists in Australian history and
their contributions to the art world.
Margaret Preston
Margaret Preston was one of the most significant Australian artists of the early 20th century. She was known for her unique approach to modernism and her use of indigenous motifs in her artwork. Her works included still lifes, landscapes, and portraits, which were characterised by her bold use of colour and form.
Grace Cossington Smith
Grace Cossington Smith was another influential Australian artist who played a vital role in shaping the modern art scene in the country. She was known for her innovative approach to colour and light and is considered one of the pioneers of modernism in Australia. Her works often depicted everyday scenes and landscapes, and she was especially famous for her paintings of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Emily Kame Kngwarreye
Emily Kame Kngwarreye was an indigenous artist who gained international recognition for her unique style of painting. She was a member of the Anmatyerre community and was known for her bold and colourful abstract paintings that represented her deep connection to her ancestral lands. Her works have been exhibited in major galleries around the world and are highly sought after by collectors.
Fiona Foley
Fiona Foley is a contemporary artist known for her powerful and thought-provoking works that explore issues of identity, race, and power. She often uses a variety of mediums in her art, including sculpture, photography, and installation, and her works have been exhibited in galleries and museums all over the world.
Tracey Moffatt
Tracey Moffatt is a photographer and filmmaker who has made significant contributions to the world of contemporary art. Her works often explore themes of race, identity, and gender and have been exhibited in major galleries around the world. She was also the first indigenous Australian artist to have a solo exhibition at the Venice Biennale in 2017.
Judy Watson
Judy Watson is an indigenous artist known for her paintings, prints, and installations that explore issues of colonialism, displacement, and identity. She often uses a variety of mediums in her art, including traditional indigenous materials such as ochre, and her works have been exhibited in major galleries and museums around the world.
Samantha Wills
Samantha Wills is a well-known Australian jewellery designer who has gained international recognition for her designs. Her jewellery is inspired by her travels, and she incorporates a variety of materials into her pieces, including crystals, stones, and metals.
Sondi
Sondi, based in the Blue Mountains, create pieces which are instantly recognisable in style and character due to disciplined continuity of design and use of materials. With a professional practice spanning almost 30 years, as she is known, is an experienced teacher and mentor to aspiring contemporary jewellers. She was my mentor when I first moved to the Blue Mountains.
Pam de Groot
Pam de Groot, based in the Blue Mountains, is a well known a fibre and textile artist across the globe. She predominately works with with wool, silk and other natural fibres, combining methods of felting, embroidery and dyeing to create art works, garments and accessories. She is now creating unique jewellery pieces too.
Celebrating these incredible women artists and their contributions to the art and jewellery world is not only important but also necessary. It is a reminder of the power and creativity that women possess and the significant impact they have made in shaping the Australian art scene.
Moreover, acknowledging and highlighting the works of Australian women artists is also essential for promoting gender diversity in the art world. While women artists have made significant contributions to the art world, they are still underrepresented in many galleries and museums, and their works often undervalued compared to their male counterparts.
One way to promote gender diversity in the art world is by creating more opportunities for women artists to showcase their works, supporting and investing in their careers, and providing equal representation in galleries and museums. By doing so, we not only recognise the incredible talent and creativity of these artists but also work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse art scene.
In conclusion, Australian women artists have made significant contributions to the art world, and their works deserve recognition and celebration. From Margaret Preston to Judy Watson, these women have broken barriers and pushed the boundaries of art, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence future generations. As we celebrate International Women's Day and International Women's History Month and beyond, let us continue to honour and celebrate the incredible women artists who have made their mark in the Australian art scene.