Here’s to the Women Who Create, Fight, and Post on Instagram in Their Underwear
Ah, March the month of women. A time to celebrate female empowerment, acknowledge the achievements of women across all walks of life, and remember the countless female artists who have been making waves in the art world, often from the comfort of their own kitchens, bathrooms, or wherever else we can find a moment of peace between running to a gallery opening and making sure our kids aren't painting on the walls.
And yet, in this age of social media, there's one pesky question that lingers like a thick layer of paint no one bothered to wipe off their brushes: Why, oh why, is being a female artist still a challenge in 2025? Why is it that a woman’s art—regardless of how amazing it is—still has to fight tooth and nail to be taken seriously? Oh, and by the way, don’t forget the mandatory showing of skin to make that art marketable. Because, you know, marketing one's work as a woman isn't about the talent; it's about the "look."
In this post, we’re going to dive into the absurd, often hilarious, and sometimes downright frustrating challenges women face in the art world. And who better to honor than the wonderful, incredibly talented Elizabeth Hefty Khoury and Sandy Goodwin? Two artists who, despite the odds, still manage to create beautiful, boundary-pushing work, all while being subjected to the bizarre expectations placed on women in the art world. So, here we go, a sarcastic salute to all the female artists out there—especially Elizabeth and Sandy.

The Struggle to Be Taken Seriously: “Cute,” “Sweet,” and Other Patronizing Labels
If you're a female artist, congratulations! You’ve already won the first prize in the "You’re Probably Not Taken Seriously" category. I mean, of course, art made by women must be soft, emotional, and nice, right? It couldn’t possibly have any sharp edges, depth, or complexity because, heaven forbid, we let women think or create in ways that are anything other than 'delicate.'
Take Elizabeth Hefty Khoury, for example. Her work delves into deep, emotional themes—yet somehow, if she were a man, critics would talk about her work with serious, pretentious buzzwords like "existential," "deconstructing boundaries," or "epic." Instead, when a woman creates similar work, suddenly it’s all "cute," "quirky," or worse, "pretty." Oh yes, because a piece of art that took hours, weeks, or even months to create must surely be classified by how "cute" it is. After all, if it’s made by a woman, it couldn’t possibly have the intellectual depth that "serious" art does.
That’s not to say that “cute” can’t be a valid descriptor (we're not totally against pink things), but when your entire career as a female artist is constantly being boiled down to whether or not you make people “feel cozy,” then we have a problem. But hey, at least we're being called “cute,” right? That's progress...?

The Never-Ending Battle for Visibility: You Must Have a ‘Gimmick’
Now, let’s talk about visibility in the art world. If you're a woman, forget about simply showcasing your art. You also need a gimmick. And by "gimmick," I mean something extra preferably something that makes people want to look at you rather than your work.
Enter the social media age! Where followers are more important than galleries, where likes are more valuable than a genuine conversation about technique, and where women artists are often encouraged (sometimes subtly, sometimes not-so-subtly) to wear a little less to sell a little more. Sandy Goodwin, an amazing talent with work that resonates deeply, still has to dance around this bizarre pressure. Her paintings speak volumes, but for the algorithm to notice, she may have to pose next to her art in a crop top, or worse, share a story about how she’s been "feeling sexy and inspired."
Can we talk about the irony here? We’re living in an age where women finally get the chance to express their artistic vision to a massive audience, but it’s not enough. Oh no. To truly break through, you need to become a brand. And that brand? Better be willing to give the world a full view of your personal life—and, preferably, your cleavage.
The cruelest part? It’s not even about what you create anymore, it’s about what you sell of yourself. Because art? Well, that's secondary to the “look” of the artist.

The Art Market's Favorite Game: Show Some Skin
Let’s be real for a second. To sell art as a woman, sometimes it seems like you have to put on a little bit of skin. I'm talking about the “Hey, why don't you just pose in front of your painting with your legs crossed and a wink?” pressure. Which, let’s be honest, is exactly what everyone expects. When was the last time a male artist had to take off his shirt to prove his art was valuable? Yeah, we thought so.
This is where social media really likes to help female artists—by helping them to “promote” their work, of course. Just make sure to throw in a few candid shots of yourself on the beach, casually reclining next to your latest abstract piece. Now, don’t get us wrong. There’s nothing wrong with embracing your body and expressing confidence. But in an industry where men can literally just post a picture of their canvas and a few cryptic quotes, women? We’ve got to work twice as hard—not just to create meaningful art but to market it by any means necessary.
It’s all very meta. You’re an artist, but to get the art noticed, you have to become an influencer. Oh, and also, throw in a little skin. Otherwise, how could anyone possibly appreciate your work without the added bonus of your ‘sellable’ persona?

Shattering Stereotypes: What Elizabeth Hefty Khoury and Sandy Goodwin Do Best
So, what’s the antidote to all this nonsense? If anyone can teach us how to break free from these ridiculous expectations, it's Elizabeth Hefty Khoury and Sandy Goodwin. These two powerhouse artists defy the norms with their work, proving that art is far from being confined to “feminine” expectations.
Elizabeth’s work, with its emotional depth and innovative use of materials, leaves no room for misinterpretation. She’s not here for your labels. Her art speaks loud and clear, and let’s be honest—no one’s going to mistake her for “cute.” Sandy Goodwin, too, continues to push boundaries, creating art that challenges perception while navigating a world that wants to box her into a specific “feminine” role. These women are unapologetically themselves. They aren’t here to play nice or fit into anyone's tidy little expectations. Instead, they’re shattering stereotypes and showing the world that being a female artist is not about being "cute"—it’s about being complex, layered, and unstoppable.

Cheers to the Women Who Make Art (and Take No Prisoners)
In conclusion, let’s raise a glass (filled with whatever you like) to the Elizabeth Hefty Khoury and Sandy Goodwins of the world. Women who continue to create, break barriers, and fight the absurdity of an art world that, despite all of its progress, still places ridiculous expectations on their work—and their bodies.
Let’s not forget, though: these women are more than just “artists.” They’re warriors in a world that still finds it difficult to take them seriously. They are taking over the art world, one piece of art (and one Instagram post) at a time.
So, here’s to all the women out there showing their creativity, their resilience, and yes, their strength—even when it’s not appreciated in the ways it should be. Keep painting, keep posting, and—please, for the love of all things—keep your clothes on when you can. Your art deserves better than that.
To Elizabeth Hefty Khoury and Sandy Goodwin, thank you for showing us what real art looks like. Keep making waves, because we’ll be here watching, and this time, we’ll be appreciating the art, not the packaging.
 

Domestic violence is a taboo that is still regarded as somewhat of a taboo in many societies, but it an issue that too many people deal with. Artists can play an important role in educating about this, whether they come from a place of personal experience or merely as an observer or concerned citizen. Each voice that publicizes this emotive topic shines light on something that thrives in darkness. 

Surviving domestic violence is an act of strength and resilience. It requires not only the courage to endure but also the bravery to leave and rebuild a life shattered by trauma. For survivors, each step forward is a testament to their inner power, a refusal to be defined by the pain inflicted upon them. This strength is not merely the absence of fear but the decision to persist despite it—to reclaim autonomy, self-worth, and a voice that was silenced.
The legacy of trauma, however, is complex and enduring. It lingers in the form of hypervigilance, trust issues, and emotional scars that can resurface unpredictably. Yet, within this legacy lies the potential for profound transformation. Acknowledging the pain without allowing it to dictate the future is an act of defiance against those who sought to diminish. Healing involves unraveling the narratives imposed by abusers and rewriting them with self-compassion and honesty. Therapy, support networks, and creative expression can serve as powerful tools for this journey, helping survivors process their experiences and find meaning beyond survival.
Turning trauma into strength involves embracing vulnerability as a source of power rather than weakness. Survivors often develop heightened empathy, resilience, and an acute understanding of human nature. This hard-won insight can become a guiding force, transforming personal pain into advocacy, art, or mentorship for others who share similar struggles. The ability to survive and rebuild becomes a narrative of hope—not just for the individual but for others still trapped in silence.
In this way, the legacy of trauma is not only a reminder of what was endured but also of what was overcome. It is a source of strength that proves survival is not the end of the story but the beginning of a new chapter defined by self-determination and the fierce will to live freely.

Red Tangles, a photographic exhibition by Diana Juliusdottir examining domestic violence, opens on Thursday March 13 and runs until March 27. 

Why Women Artists Matter, Especially in Marginalized Societies

Women artists hold a profound significance in marginalized societies where their rights are persistently under attack. In these environments, where freedom of expression is stifled and gender equality remains a distant ideal, women’s art becomes a radical act of resistance. Through their work, women artists challenge oppressive norms, expose injustice, and give voice to the silenced. Art, in this context, is not merely a form of expression but a lifeline—a way to document lived experiences, resist erasure, and demand change.
Women’s art often intertwines the personal with the political, capturing the complexities of identity, freedom, and survival. In societies where women's voices are systematically suppressed, their art serves as an alternative record of history and culture—one that refuses to be erased. It reclaims narratives, portrays resilience, and insists on the validity of women's perspectives. The act of creating itself becomes a declaration of existence, a refusal to be invisibilized. In this way, women artists in marginalized societies transform art into a weapon against patriarchy and an archive of resistance.

Solidarity Across Borders: How Women Artists in Freer Societies Can Support Others
Women artists in societies that enjoy relative freedoms have a unique role to play in supporting their sisters in more oppressive contexts. Their freedom to create and communicate without severe repercussions positions them as powerful allies. This support can manifest in several ways:

1. Amplifying Voices: Artists in freer societies can use their platforms to spotlight the works and stories of women from marginalized communities, ensuring their messages reach a global audience. By curating exhibitions, publishing collaborative works, or even leveraging social media, they can bypass censorship and amplify suppressed voices.
2. Collaborative Projects: Cross-border collaborations can unite women artists around shared themes of struggle and resilience. These projects not only create bonds of solidarity but also highlight the universality of women's rights issues, fostering a collective resistance.
3. Advocacy Through Art: Women artists can channel their freedom into advocacy, creating pieces that address gender-based violence, political oppression, and systemic discrimination faced by women globally. Art that demands accountability and exposes human rights abuses can rally international support and pressure oppressive regimes.
4. Resources and Training: Sharing resources, funding, and skills can empower women artists in restrictive societies to continue their practice. Offering mentorship, workshops, and residencies can provide these artists with the tools they need to resist and create despite limitations.

​The Power of Women’s Art as a Message of Strength and Defiance
Women’s art is a potent force for change. It embodies defiance against systems that seek to silence and oppress. When women portray their realities—whether through painting, performance, or installations—they declare their existence and resilience. Art has the power to transcend borders, languages, and cultural barriers, making women’s struggles visible to the world.
Moreover, women’s art often carries a deeply symbolic language that resonates universally. From reinterpreting ancient myths to exposing the raw pain of contemporary injustices, women artists weave personal and collective memories into powerful critiques of patriarchy and oppression. In doing so, they not only challenge the status quo but also offer visions of alternative futures—ones where women’s voices are not just heard but lead the way.
In essence, women artists matter because they refuse to be silenced. Their art is both a mirror and a beacon, reflecting the harsh realities of oppression while lighting a path towards equality and justice. By standing together across borders, women artists can amplify this message of strength, defiance, and hope—insisting that no woman, no matter where she lives, stands alone.

March is Women´s Month!

In Beirut this is being celebrated with an exhibition (07-28 March) at the Museum of Lebanese Prehistory at USJ, Monot of the work of some multitalented Lebanese artists, curated by BeyArt. 
 
Supporting Women Artists
Supporting women artists is not just about achieving gender parity in the art world—it is about recognizing and amplifying voices that have been historically silenced or marginalized. Art has a unique power to reshape narratives, challenge societal norms, and inspire change. When we support women artists, we invest in a more inclusive cultural landscape that reflects the full spectrum of human experience.


Celebrating Women’s Month
Women’s Month offers a dedicated time to highlight the achievements and struggles of women throughout history and today. It is an opportunity to focus on the contributions of women artists who have navigated structural biases and limited access to resources and platforms. Showcasing their work during this time is a powerful reminder that women’s perspectives are indispensable to understanding and interpreting the world around us. Their art often addresses themes of identity, resilience, and transformation—narratives that resonate with broader struggles for equality and justice.


The Importance in Lebanon
In Lebanon, supporting women artists carries an additional layer of significance. Lebanese women artists continuously challenge societal expectations and cultural constraints through their art, using it as a medium for both personal expression and political critique. Their work often delves into themes of feminism, displacement, identity, and resistance—reflecting the complexities of a country marked by conflict, migration, and a profound sense of belonging and exile. Now, more than ever, their voices need to be heard, to reflect the renaissance of a country emerging from the ruins of another war. By highlighting their work, we not only empower individual artists but also contribute to a broader dialogue about freedom of expression and social justice in Lebanon. The art on display in this exhibition by multitalented Lebanese women serves as a powerful form of storytelling, preserving collective memory and shedding light on overlooked or suppressed narratives. Supporting these artists means ensuring that Lebanon’s cultural narrative is multifaceted and authentically representative of all experiences.
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Creating Space for Future Voices
By investing in Lebanese women artists, we lay the groundwork for future generations. This support translates into funding, exhibitions, residencies, and networks that enable women artists to thrive. In turn, these artists serve as role models, showing young women that their voices matter and their perspectives are valuable. Supporting Lebanese women artists—especially during Women’s Month—is a powerful act of solidarity and a commitment to a richer, more inclusive cultural future for Lebanon.