When it comes to women artists being represented in history, you really have to dig to find them. Thankfully, things have changed, and it’s the women of the Arts & Craft movements we have to honour who fought for their talent to be seen and taken seriously.
They were there, fighting for their talent to be seen, catching glimpses of recognition for their talent crowded out by a patriarchal art establishment. Things really started to change in the 18th century, where women and their art fought back, starting a rebellion with the themes of their work, challenging convention in all areas of life.
I have always felt uncomfortable with a majority of my range being by male artists. For the last few months I have been quietly but studiously curating and restoring work by those amazing women whose work needs to be seen again.
So, it is with great delight that I introduce the first of this series, a stunning depiction of the three virtues by Irish artist Wilhelmina Geddes (1887-1955).
Faith, Hope, and Charity was Gedde’s last commission before her death, this really is a poignant piece that was installed in St Paul’s, Battersea.
She never got to see the window in situ, but her colleagues at The Glass House studio ensured it was finished to her exacting standards, never wavering from her style or intent. The original now resides at the Stained Glass Museum at Ely Cathedral.
When approaching this piece, I have changed the background to a marbled glass, with a warm palette to highlight the virtues, yet keep the original intent. Finished with a washi border and decorative metal corners, it’s a statement piece with a history behind it, made for the contemporary eye.
Find this, and other stunning historical designs via the contact details below:
