EXHIBITION: Bonheur & Beyond: Celebrating Women in Wildlife Art – National Museum of Wildlife Art

Rosa Bonheur (French, 1822–1899), Chamois Mother and Baby, 1888
oil on canvas
National Museum of Wildlife Art, Jackson, WY (USA)

Rosa Bonheur (1822-1899) was one of the most famous women artists of the 19th century and one of the most esteemed animal painters in history. Her reputation and popularity grew steadily during the Victorian era, especially among the British middle class. Bonheur’s animal paintings showed her attention to detail from her in-depth studies of animal anatomy to her sensitivity for her subject matter, which aligned with growing interest in animal rights and women’s rights movements. Her rejection of Victorian societal norms, specifically her tendency to dress in what was deemed “masculine” attire, brought her further attention as a point of interest among contemporary audiences. Although Bonheur gained financial and critical success in her time, she was an anomaly. Women artists, particularly those who depict wildlife, have been under recognized throughout history. To celebrate the 200th anniversary of Bonheur’s birth and in honor of the Museum’s 35th anniversary, we present an exhibit featuring works by Bonheur alongside a selection of historic and contemporary pieces by women artists from the permanent collection.

[NMWA]

More info and tickets here: Bonheur & Beyond: Celebrating Women in Wildlife Art – National Museum of Wildlife Art

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