The self-portrait has always been an artist's most intriguing vehicle for analysis and self-expression. The unusual freedom offered the artist by the dual occupation of the roles of both subject and creator has meant that self-portraiture has been of especial value and interest in the work of women artists. Mirror Mirror explores the history and function of the self-portrait in the work of 40 women artists, from the mid-17th century to the present day. It covers portraits in all media, from oil painting to photography, from woodcut to ceramic sculpture, and includes self-portraits from such major artists as Mary Beale, Gwen John and Dame Barbara Hepworth, as well as lesser-known figures such as the Zinkeisen sisters, Madame Yevonde and Helen Chadwick. There are also portraits by women artists known primarily for their work in other media including the astonishing self-portrait ceramic relief by SusieCooper.
The works themselves appear chronologically, and include biographical details of the artists. They are supported by essays from two leading art historians in this field Professor Whitney
Chadwick, who discusses ideas of style and technique, including the artists' exploration of their own identity; and Dr Frances Borzello, who presents the historical background and artistic context to the works illustrated here.
Accompanies the exhibition opening at the National Portrait Gallery from 24 October 2001 to 10 February 2002 and at the Leeds City Art Gallery from April to June 2002, the Victoria Art Gallery, Bath, from 22 June to 1 August 2002 and York City Art Gallery from 21 September to 3 November 2002.publiarq.com
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