Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain 1520–1920

This book chronicles the journey of women artists in Britain from 1520 to 1920, revealing their significant contributions and struggles for recognition.

From the Tudor era to the First World War, Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain 1520–1920 explores the remarkable journey of women striving to become professional artists. It highlights figures such as Levina Teerlinc, a miniaturist at the court of Elizabeth I, and Laura Knight, the first woman elected to the Royal Academy after a lengthy gap. These women carved out significant careers in the art world, successfully exhibiting their work in public exhibitions despite facing societal constraints.

Challenging the traditional roles of wives, mothers, and daughters, these artists pursued their passions in a predominantly male-dominated field. They painted history pieces, battle scenes, and nudes—genres typically reserved for men. By examining the careers of artists like Mary Beale, Angelica Kauffman, and Elizabeth, Lady Butler, the book dismantles the stereotype of women as mere amateur watercolorists and reveals their dedication to their craft as professional artists.

In her 1876 work, Ellen Creathorne Clayton remarked that women artists had left only faint imprints on history. Now You See Us seeks to change that perception by analyzing the works of these women, the critical reception of their art, and their involvement in the women's rights movement. This insightful exploration sheds light on their true legacy and rightful place within art history, showcasing the significant contributions of women artists in Britain over four centuries.