An exhibition at Tate Britain titled ‘Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain 1520 – 1920’ will shine a spotlight on female artists supported by key historical figures like Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, showcasing their significant patronage that aided in the professional advancement of these emerging talents.
An upcoming exhibition at Tate Britain, “Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain 1520 – 1920,” will showcase the work of female artists supported by key figures in history, among them Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The exhibition highlights the royal couple’s significant patronage of female talent during their reign, aiding in the professional advancement of then-emerging artists.
Among those supported were sculptors Mary Thornycroft, Susan Durant, and Henrietta Montalba as well as painters Helen Cordelia Angell and Elizabeth Butler. Curator Tabitha Barber emphasizes the pivotal role that Victoria and Albert played in promoting female artists, purchasing and commissioning their works, which helped these women carve out successful careers in a male-dominated field.
One notable piece is Elizabeth Butler’s “Calling the Roll after an Engagement, Crimea,” which gained immense acclaim at the Royal Academy and necessitated a police guard due to its popularity. The exhibition is set to run from May 16 to October 13, providing insight into the often-challenging careers faced by these historical female artists.
