Inspirational Women: Rediscovering Stories in Art, Science and Social Reform

Published to celebrate Women’s History Month, this book focuses on the stories of inspirational and pioneering women whose work has changed the course of British history. Although the successes of many of these women have not been celebrated historically, this new title will shine a light on their achievements and contributions to history and culture both in Britain and, in some cases, internationally. These stories of perseverance and achievement have been grouped into four broad themes: Art & Architecture; Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths (STEM); Social Reform, Politics and Law; and Women Abroad.

It features an introductory essay by Samira Ahmed as well as extended captions by Lydia Miller. The publication provides a snapshot of Reframing Narratives: Women in Portraiture, a three-year project supported by the CHANEL Culture Fund. This project aims to enhance the representation of women in the National Portrait Gallery’s Collection and highlight the often-overlooked stories of individual women who have shaped British history and culture. Some of the sitters featured in this book include Mary Beale, Gwen John, Maggie Aderin-Pocock, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, Dorothy Hodgkin, Olive Morris, Cicely Saunders and Laura Knight.