Mirror Mirror: Self-Portraits by Women Artists

About this book

The self-portrait is an artists most intriguing vehicle for analysis and self-expression. Serving a dual role as both creator and subject artists are offered unusual freedom; as a result self-portraits offer special value and high interest for both artists and art lovers. Mirror Mirror explores the role of the self-portrait in the work of 40 women artists from the mid-17th century to today. Filled with gorgeous full-color reproductions this unique guide covers a wide range of mediafrom oil painting to photography woodcut to ceramic sculpture. Readers will discover the rare work of major painters including Mary Beale Gwen John and Dame Barbara Hepworth as well as portraits by women known primarily for their work in other media such as photographer Lee Miller and ceramicist Susie Cooper. Each of these wonderful self-portraits appears chronologically and features fascinating biographical details of each artist as well as inspiring essays from two leading art historians: Whitney Chadwick who discusses style technique and how the artist explored her own identity; and Frances Borzello who presents the historical background and artistic context of each portrait. Whether youre interested in history art appreciation or general womens issues Mirror Mirror offers a rare look into the work intrigue and genius of some of the most creative women artists throughout the centuries. Features beautiful rare reproductions Captivating understandable text written by highly regarded scholars Womens history and art continually appeal to a wide audience