9 female artists you should know about for International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate the incredible female artists who have shaped history and continue to inspire today. From painters and poets to textile designers and sculptors, these nine women broke boundaries, challenged norms, and left a lasting impact on the world of art.

1. Frida Kahlo (1907-1954) – The queen of self-expression

Known for her deeply personal and surreal self-portraits, Frida Kahlo explored themes of identity, pain, and resilience. Her work is instantly recognisable and continues to inspire millions with its raw emotion and bold colours.

2. Amanda Gorman (born 1998) – The voice of a generation

Amanda Gorman rose to fame in 2021 when she delivered her powerful poem The Hill We Climb at Joe Biden’s inauguration. As a poet and activist, she uses words to spark change, address social justice issues, and inspire future generations.

3. George Sand (1804-1876) – The literary rebel

A trailblazer in the literary world, George Sand defied conventions by writing under a male pseudonym and championing women’s rights in 19th-century France. Her novels and essays explored themes of love, identity, and social justice, paving the way for future female writers.

4. Anni Albers (1899-1994) – The textile visionary

Anni Albers revolutionised textile design by blending traditional weaving techniques with modernist principles. A key figure at the Bauhaus school, she challenged the notion that textiles were merely decorative and proved they could be a powerful form of fine art.

5. Yayoi Kusama (born 1929) – The queen of polka dots

A pioneer of contemporary art, Yayoi Kusama is famous for her immersive installations and iconic polka dot patterns. Her work explores themes of infinity, mental health, and feminism, making her one of the most influential artists of our time.

6. Artemisia Gentileschi (1593-1653) – The Baroque powerhouse

One of the first female painters to gain recognition in the male-dominated art world of the 17th century, Artemisia Gentileschi painted powerful, dramatic scenes that often depicted strong women taking control of their destiny.

7. Zanele Muholi (born 1972) – The activist photographer

A South African visual activist and photographer, Zanele Muholi captures the beauty, struggles, and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. Their work challenges stereotypes and shines a light on underrepresented voices.

8. Hilma af Klint (1862-1944) – The spiritual abstractionist

Decades before abstract art became mainstream, Hilma af Klint was creating bold, mystical paintings inspired by spirituality and nature. Her ground-breaking work remained largely undiscovered until long after her death but is now celebrated worldwide.

9. Kara Walker (born 1969) – The master of storytelling through silhouettes

Kara Walker’s striking black-and-white silhouettes explore race, gender, and history, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths. Her powerful storytelling has made her one of the most important contemporary artists today.

From bold painters to ground-breaking poets, these women have shaped the world of art in ways that continue to inspire and challenge us. This International Women’s Day, take a moment to appreciate their genius and let their creativity spark your own!