Championing the contribution of Female Artists to Surrealism

In my opinion, the Schirn has once again outdone itself with its latest exhibition, ‘Fantastische Frauen’. The exhibit opened last week to feature 34 Female artists from 11 different countries with some 260 works between them. A multidisciplinary exhibit including painting, works on paper, photography, film and sculpture.

What is Surrealism?

Ever stopped to remember your dreams? To reflect without judgement and put aside any rational and objective thought? It’s an interesting exercise and one I encourage you all to try. In essence, this is the premise upon which Surrealism is built, the unconscious in the absence of reason and rationality.

With this in mind, the Schirn has put together a remarkable group of women who beautifully illustrate and showcase the extent and beauty of our unconscious mind. Some you will have heard of, the likes of Louise Bourgeois, Claude Cahun, Leonora Carrington, Frida Kahlo and Meret Oppenheim whilst others perhaps not, renowned is not the point here. What is the point however, and true for all of them was their no longer willing to remain the Goddess, she-devil, doll, fetish, child-woman or wonderful dream creature in someone else’s subconscious construct but rather forging and defining their own. They battle with and delve into conversations that even today, people approach with caution and at times skepticism transgender, female objectification

Take your kids

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again I love the time and effort Schirn makes and takes to bring art to our younger generations! Last week I took both my boys to the kids opening of the Fantastic Women Surrealism exhibit. It makes my heart sing that the museum sees it important for the kids to have their own personal screening. There was a workshop and refreshments, which is just as important as the exhibition itself I might add. Kids are allowed to be happy and excited in the ‘boring museum’ context. And therefore forging happy and positive connotations with art and history.

When I was younger I found art intimidating, almost a feeling like I couldn’t enjoy it because I didn’t know much about it! I don’t want this for my kids. After all, art is there for all to appreciate regardless of whether you know the artist, genre and artists intention.