Making the transparent apparent: Studies of key women artists in the history of ecumenical stained glass

PURPOSE This research builds upon the current movement to redress a historical imbalance, acknowledging that the work of women stained glass artists warrants more attention than it has thus far received. It argues that a feminist history needs to be established so that aspiring female stained glass artists can see their own achievable potential in the accomplishments of previously undervalued women. METHODS The research is informed by a feminist theoretical approach and critiques the traditional canonical narrative. Case studies were created to investigate the life and work of seminal women stained glass artists from the late 19th century to the present day. An investigation was undertaken into existing directories and repositories for stained glass heritage, to assess how well these women are currently represented and celebrated and how accessibility to their achievements might be improved. RESULTS The case studies show the difficulties and discrimination these women had to overcome, as well as the connections and similarities between them, their networks and their achievements. The research highlights the need to promote their achievements further, raising their profile and ensuring their names are not excluded from appropriate recognition. To ensure these women’s names and stories are not hidden and forgotten again, they need to be included within the stained glass canon, promoted in on-line directories and identified in the places where they are represented. IMPLICATIONS By bringing to prominence the visibility of women stained glass artists and their successful careers, we will help safeguard the future of our stained glass heritage by encouraging young women with talent and aspiration in this field. There are wider implications for women, in terms of gender inclusiveness in the accepted canons of all aspects of art and design. Fulfilling this exercise for my discipline adds to an ongoing reclaiming and documenting of talented women artists who were previously omitted or buried as a result of the gender bias in our various art histories.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

mres

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Year dc:date.issued

2023

Author dc:creator

• Fowler, Jacqueline

• HQ Y teulu. Priodas. Benyw.
• NK Celfyddydau addurnol Celfyddydau cymhwysol Addurno ac addurn

Dc Identifier Grantnumber

UWTSD

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.uwtsd.ac.uk:2581