Today, on voting day, I’m diving into how feminist artists are making waves with their work, using art to spotlight the power of the vote and women’s political participation. These artists are continuing a long tradition of blending art with activism for women’s rights and social change.
A Look Back
The link between feminist art and voting runs deep. Early 20th-century suffragist artists, like those from the Artists’ Suffrage League, created eye-catching posters, postcards, and banners to fight for women’s right to vote. Their work was bold, witty, and often fueled by righteous anger—bringing the suffrage message straight to the streets and homes, making it impossible to ignore.
Feminist Art in Action Today
Fast forward to today, and feminist artists are still carrying that torch, using their creativity to push for equality and civic engagement. Check out a few standout projects:
Deborah Vanko’s “The Personal Is Political”: In response to the overturning of Roe v. Wade, Vanko’s art, “This Is My Body,” shouts, “You can’t control us. You can’t stop us.” It’s a powerful statement linking bodily autonomy with political power.
Michele Pred’s Feminist Art Parade: Pred organized a vibrant feminist art parade in NYC, blending art with activism to encourage people to vote. It was a public, dynamic display of civic pride and participation.
Marilyn Artus’ Her Flag Project: A massive collaboration celebrating 100 years of women’s suffrage, featuring female artists from all 50 states. Each one contributes a stripe to a giant flag, sewn together in public events across the country—uniting history and activism in a powerful visual symbol.
Personal Shout-Out: In 2020, I curated the exhibit “Canvas(s)ing the Politics of Voter Suppression since Women’s Suffrage,” for West Virginia University Libraries. All of the content lives on online here, including essays and art here.
What the Art is Saying
These artists are getting real about some big issues:
– The ongoing push for equality and representation
– How personal stories tie into larger political movements
– Using public art to get people talking and paying attention
– Mixing up styles and media to reach different audiences
– Paying homage to suffrage history while still pushing forward
Why It Matters
Feminist art isn’t just about making something pretty—it’s about making an impact. This art:
– Shines a spotlight on the importance of voting
– Encourages marginalized voices to speak up and be heard
– Tackles inequality in creative, accessible ways
– Captures and reflects the fight for equality
– Acts as a rallying cry for social change
In a world where voting rights and women’s equality are still under fire, these artists remind us that creativity is a powerful tool. Their work isn’t just art—it’s a call to action, a vision for a more just future, and proof that art really can change the world.
What other powerful examples of feminist art inspiring social change have you seen lately?