WOMEN WHO MAKE PRINTS: 1800-2010

Opening First Thursday, February 3, 6-8 pm.
Showing February 4-26, 2011

During the month of February the Antique and Contemporary Print Departments will feature prints by women. The selection of works range in date from the eighteen hundreds to the present and reflect a variety of subjects and techniques by local, national and internationally known artists. Historically, social roles and an absence of training in the arts excluded many women from making prints. However, by the beginning of the 19th century more women began to take up printmaking as a source of income and as an outlet for personal expression. From Mary Cassatt to Helmi Juvonen, the Antique Department will showcase prints made by women who broke boundaries and sought a place for themselves in a largely male-dominated arena. Women today are given equal opportunities to train and exhibit that men are. Because of this greater freedom and appreciation, many women are now at the forefront of the print arts. Internationally acclaimed Carol Wax is regarded as a master of the mezzotint process, while closer to home, Seattle artist, Barbara Robertson is known for her pioneering use of many new, cutting-edge techniques. This exhibition pays homage to the role women have had in the history of print making and the influence they will have on its future.