"Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?"

"Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?" by Linda Nochlin is a foundational essay that explores how historical and social factors limited women's opportunities in the art world. It argues that systemic barriers—such as lack of access to training, education, and patronage—prevented many talented women from gaining recognition. Nochlin challenges the idea that greatness is solely based on innate talent, highlighting instead how societal structures shaped artistic careers. The essay emphasizes that the absence of celebrated women artists results from these exclusionary practices, not a lack of ability or creativity.