"The careers and accomplishments of women creators in Western Civilization are described in an accessible and informative mattner in the Second Edition of Women Artists in History: From Antiquity to the 20th Century. Over sixty artists, mostly painters and sculptors, are featured in this book. Selections were based on each woman's unique and important contributions to the history of art. each artist measures up to the same rigorous standards applied to male artists in other survey texts. To understand and appreciate the achievements of these outstanding women, this volume takes a thorough look at the cultural environment in which they lived and worked, as well as the social, economic, and demographic factors that influenced their art." --From back cover

Thousands of women pursued artistic careers in the United States during the late nineteenth century. According to census figures, the number of women among the ranks of professional artists rose from 10 percent to nearly 50 percent between 1870 and 1890.

First Published in 1997. North American Women Artists of the Twentieth Century: A Biographical Dictionary was created to fill a gap of there being a comprehensive reference work like this available, even though the bibliography in English on various aspects of the history of women artists has grown exponentially during the past ten years. As researchers, the editors have been frustrated many times by being unable to locate basic information about many of the artists included in this volume—especially those working outside the United States. This leads directly to another reason for producing this particular kind of reference book—to try and create a better understanding between and among the artists and art audiences in these countries.

Five centuries of fascinating female creativity presented in more than 400 compelling artworks and one comprehensive volume The most extensive fully illustrated book of women artists ever published, Great Women Artists reflects an era where art made by women is more prominent than ever. In museums, galleries, and the art market, previously overlooked female artists, past and present, are now gaining recognition and value. Featuring more than 400 artists from more than 50 countries and spanning 500 years of creativity, each artist is represented here by a key artwork and short text. This essential volume reveals a parallel yet equally engaging history of art for an age that champions a greater diversity of voices. "Real changes are upon us, and today one can reel off the names of a number of first-rate women artists. Nevertheless, women are just getting started."—The New Yorker

Includes material on the New York School, Pop art, Feminist Art Movement, and Latina artists.