Breaking the Glass Canvas: Where Are the Women?

Despite the remarkable contributions women have made throughout history, the art world remains a space where their presence is often overshadowed. While there have always been trailblazing female artists, the spotlight has traditionally been reserved for men, with a disproportionate number of exhibitions, museum collections, and historical recognition focused on male artists. This disparity raises a crucial question: Where are the women in the art world?

Historical Exclusion and Its Impact

Historically, women artists faced significant barriers. Gender biases, lack of formal education opportunities, and societal expectations kept many talented women out of the art scene or relegated them to the margins. While women like Frida Kahlo, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Mary Cassatt managed to carve out their legacies, they were the exceptions, not the rule. The art world was largely dominated by male figures whose works shaped the mainstream narrative. This historical exclusion has created a ripple effect that still impacts female artists today.

The Current Landscape

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift as institutions have made efforts to address the gender imbalance in their collections, exhibitions, and awards. Museums and galleries are dedicating more space to female artists. Or are they? While progress is being made, the numbers still don’t reflect true equality. Studies show that women account for just a small fraction of the works displayed in major galleries and museums globally, highlighting the ongoing struggle women face in gaining the recognition their work deserves.

This disparity leads me to reflect on my own experience. Throughout my educational journey—high school, undergraduate studies, a master's program, and community art classes—my art classes were predominantly female. So, why is it that when you visit galleries and museums today, male artists are overwhelmingly represented?

During my four years working at a top commercial fine art gallery in Denver, Colorado, I witnessed firsthand the gender imbalance in the art world. The gallery was owned by three middle-aged white men, and out of the hundreds of artists represented, only a small handful (less than 10) were women. Despite hosting numerous in-person art shows (over 10 each year), none of the featured artists were female.

This experience underscores the continued challenge of truly elevating female artists within the broader art world. Despite the shift toward recognition and inclusion, the gender gap remains pervasive, and it begs the question: Why, in a world where women dominate the creative fields at the grassroots level, do galleries and museums still remain so male-dominated?

Female Mentorship

Throughout my artistic journey, I have been deeply influenced and inspired by several powerful female mentors who played pivotal roles in shaping my career. One of the most impactful figures in my early years was Irene Sukle, my high school art teacher. Irene’s encouragement and nurturing of my artistic talents instilled a deep confidence and love for the creative process. Irene’s guidance was essential in helping me realize my potential and begin to envision a future in the arts. She encouraged me to apply for The Marie Walsh Sharpe Art Foundation, a scholarship program for the top-most gifted junior high school students in America. I was accepted, and it aggressively changed my path in life and art.

After I turned 21, I was able to apply to work at The Marie Walsh Sharpe Art Foundation as a counselor. I was fortunate to work alongside Joyce Robinson, the former CEO of The Maria Walsh Sharpe Art Foundation for four sessions/ three years. Joyce’s leadership and expertise in the art world provided me with invaluable insights into the business side of art, as well as the importance of fostering community and supporting emerging artists. Both Irene and Joyce’s mentorship have left lasting impressions on me, helping me navigate the challenges of the art world with resilience and purpose.

The Need for Continued Support and Recognition

While women are making strides, there is still much work to be done. Equal representation in gallery spaces, auction houses, and museum collections is critical. Institutions need to not only highlight the works of women but also create environments that nurture emerging female talent. Additionally, more funding, mentorship, and opportunities for women artists are necessary for sustained growth and success.

There’s also a pressing need to continue addressing the historical erasure of female artists. More research and retrospective exhibitions dedicated to forgotten or overlooked women artists can help reshape the art historical narrative and ensure a fuller, more inclusive story.

Conclusion: The Future is Bright

The art world is slowly evolving into a more inclusive space, but there is still much work ahead. The question of Where are the women? is being answered, but it’s up to institutions, collectors, and the public to ensure that female artists continue to receive the recognition and respect they deserve. By supporting women artists and advocating for equal representation, we can work toward an art world that truly reflects the diversity of voices and experiences that make it so vibrant.

It’s time for women to take their rightful place at the forefront of the art world—and this is part of the reason I started The BACA Gallery.