In mid-20th-century New York, the Abstract Expressionist movement took over the art world. Although the movement was dominated by male painters, the historic 1971 Ninth Street Show included the works of five female artists who ultimately changed the trajectory of the art world: Lee Krasner, Elaine de Kooning, Grace Hartigan, Joan Mitchell, and Helen Frankenthaler.  These women burst on the art scene and went on to become international celebrities. Our primary text, Ninth Street Women by Mary Gabriel, will be the basis of our discovery of the roots of their art, their developing artistic styles, their struggles, their triumphs, and their ultimate legacy.  In addition to the text, interviews with the artists, catalogues from gallery shows, and images of their work will be posted online.  Each class will be comprised of discussions of the readings, interviews, and exhibition websites, with special emphasis on close inspection and discussion of the art images. 

Please note that Ninth Street Women is long. It is suggested that you read this before the first class so that preparation is manageable during the course. This online course will not be recorded.

*Note: This online course will not be recorded.