Corporate
Walsall shines a light on pioneering women for International Women’s Day
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To mark International Women’s Day on Wednesday 8 March 2023, Walsall Council is showcasing a number of the town’s female pioneers both online on their social media channels and at The New Art Gallery.
International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate women’s achievements and raise awareness about discrimination and drive gender parity. This year’s campaign has a particular focus on embracing equity to create a gender equal world.
On Saturday 4 March 2023 from 2pm to 3pm, The New Art Gallery Walsall kicks off the celebrations with a free collections tour of key works representing women in the prestigious Garman Ryan Collection. This will include depictions of Elizabeth Siddal, Mary McEvoy and Suzanne Valadon, talented artists in their own right but who have been overshadowed historically by their male contemporaries.
Until 16 April 2023, the Gallery also hosts Breaking the Mould: Sculpture by Women since 1945, a major touring exhibition from Arts Council Collection celebrating post-war sculpture by women, challenging a historically male-dominated artform. The exhibition represents the work of forty-five sculptors including Barbara Hepworth, Cornelia Parker and 2022 Turner Prize winner Veronica Ryan.
On social media, Walsall Council will be acknowledging important local women from Sister Dora, the town’s very own Florence Nightingale, through to the modern day with women such as Aldridge-born former Paralympian Swimmer Ellie Simmonds OBE.
“ International Women’s Day is a time for all of us to celebrate the achievements of women and this year’s #EmbraceEquity theme encourages everyone to imagine a gender equal world, free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination.
No-one in our Borough should feel held back because of their gender and on social media the Council will be encouraging residents to join in and share inspiring stories about local women who have made a difference, whether it’s a public figure, a friend, work colleague or relative. Embrace gender equality and help us celebrate “
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Notes to Editors
· About The New Art Gallery Walsall
The New Art Gallery Walsall presents, collects and interprets historic, modern and contemporary art in innovative and challenging ways, welcoming visitors from all over the globe as well as our immediate locality. They aim to increase the understanding and enjoyment of arts and culture through a dynamic exhibition, education and events programme.
