History of Women in Sculpture

The history of women in sculpture reflects broader trends in the arts and society. Historically, women faced significant barriers in accessing training and recognition. In ancient times, some female sculptors like Praxiteles’ mother were acknowledged, but their contributions often went unrecorded. The Renaissance saw a few women, such as Properzia de’ Rossi, gain acclaim. With the 19th century's rise of the women’s rights movement, more women entered the art world. The 20th century featured prominent sculptors like Louise Bourgeois and Barbara Hepworth, who shaped modern sculpture, continuing to inspire and challenge traditional narratives in art.