Post Modern Art

 Feminist Art Movement

The Post Modern Era was a time of continued growth, expansion, and some conflict. During this time period there are many movements that carried from the Mid Modern Era into the late 20th Century. This includes The Civil Rights Movement, Women's Movement, advancements in science, expansions of religions, and war. One of the biggest conflicts of this time may include equality, for both African Americans and women. This was an important time for expanding the rights of women. Before the Mid-Post Modern Era, women were often seen as those incapable of doing the job a man could do. However, things began to shift during the Post Modern time period. Women became more politically involved, demanded equal pay and rights, and understood it was time to break unhealthy relations between men and women overall. 


Earth Birth, Judy Chicago, 1983, The Brooklyn Museum

Judy Chicago was a Feminist Art Movement artist who focused on the power of birth and womanhood. She recognized the lack of female representation, specifically birth as part of a woman's experience. Earth Birth gives a very strong, yet vulnerable feel. I think that birth and some aspects of womanhood can be unsettling for some people, but it's important to have artists like Chicago to open up discussions and representation for these important topics. The first art element I noticed was the shape of the woman; which I think gives connection between her body and the Earth which is flowing around her. I believe the artist uses these yellow hues to highlight the important features during pregnancy and birth. 


Birth Trinity, Judy Chicago, 1985, The Brooklyn Museum

Birth Trinity is another piece from Judy Chicago. This piece gives a strong representation of women in the art world and brings us a little closer to equality amongst men and women. During this time period, women were still fighting for equal rights, and in some ways being represented in the art world. I think this piece is stunning. It's very detailed, yet simple and possibly gives a dramatic effect. The variation of colors really bring it to life and may share the intense feel of child birth. I think the style of Chicago's work is unique in the sense that the lines tend to create a pattern. The shape of the three women catches my attention, as they are a center piece. 


Shrine for Two Paint Tubes, Miriam Schapiro, 1963, Brooklyn Museum

Shrine for Two Paint Tubes is an interesting piece. Schapiro had created a series of shrine paintings using different windows, oval shapes, and fruits to create a visual account of the life of a female artist. This particular painting contains many different elements that lead us into the perspective of a feminist mind. Schapiro stated in an autobiographical reflection that the top tier of the shrine represents her hopes and desires, while the bottom tier represents a mirror so she can reflect on her art. I think this piece has a lot of symbolism. The use of shapes, space and organization, and muted colors. 


Dollhouse, Miriam Schapiro, 1972, National Academy Museum

Dollhouse was created to represent the lives of women. Schapiro intended this piece to be a metaphor in that when the shutters to the house are closed it represents the public persona a woman should present. Although Dollhouse presents some of the traditional roles of a caretaker, there is more to see than just the stereotypical details. I think this is a powerful piece. It's incredibly important for people to understand that they control how the world sees them and how much they choose to share. This message is especially important during the Post Modern Era when women were still fighting for equal rights. The use of vibrant colors caught my attention. It adds detail and uniqueness. 


Some Living Women Artists/The Last Supper, Mary Beth Edelson, 1972, Smithsonian American Art Museum

I think this piece is incredible. The first elements in this collage that noticed was that it was entirely black and white with a few blotches of color. The lack of colors makes it look like a newspaper, which I think adds to the clarity and firmness that Edelson might have been aiming for. The second element I noticed is the use of space. The border of the collage is cluttered and lined with women artists. I think by doing that, Edelson is showing us many women deserve to be noticed and recognized for their artistic contributions. 


Death of the Patriarchy/A.I.R Anatomy Lesson, Mary Beth Edelson, 1976, Los Angeles County Museum of Art

This piece follows the theme of strengthening the female presence throughout history. I enjoy Edelsons style and the messages she incorporates. The main element I noticed was the different shades of black. I believe it's due to the fact that it's a collage and it consists of different materials pasted together. Edelson adds to the original painting that doesn't take up much space, yet immediately grabs attention. Not sure if I would own either painting, but both are very interesting with great messages. 

Sources Cited

https://www.theartstory.org/movement/feminist-art/artworks/#pnt_1

https://www.artnews.com/art-news/artists/miriam-schapiro-pioneering-feminist-artist-dies-at-91-4408/

http://accolagriefen.com/artists/mary-beth-edelson

https://www.theartstory.org/artist/schapiro-miriam/

https://www.wikiart.org/en/miriam-schapiro

https://www.flavorwire.com/575161/underappreciated-women-art-pioneers-of-the-60s

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