Female artists are finally receiving the recognition they deserve in an exhibition spanning 400 years at Tate Britain in London. The show, titled "Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain, 1520-1920," features works like Emily Mary Osborn’s 1857 painting "Nameless and Friendless." This piece vividly captures the plight of Victorian women through the depiction of a forlorn woman in an art dealer’s shop, reflecting the societal constraints of the era. Despite these challenges, women persisted in their creative endeavors, breaking out of gender restrictions and mastering various genres and forms.
The exhibition highlights the struggle and triumph of women artists, showcasing their resilience and ingenuity. After 20 years of campaigning, women were permitted to join the Royal Academy in 1893, despite the lack of state-funded education until the Slade School of Fine Art opened in 1871. This historic exhibition is a testament to the ingenuity of these women who navigated their societal restrictions to make significant contributions to the art world. This movement is not confined to Britain; in Australia, the "Know My Name" exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia has led to increased representation of female artists, with a notable portion of the NGA’s acquisitions and exhibitions now featuring women’s works. As these artists gain recognition, future generations will grow up understanding their valuable contributions.