Medika Edwards

Art History

Professor Dorris Cacoilo

Mini Blog:  Artemisia Gentileschi

            Artemisia was born in Rome Italy 1593 and died 1653, she was the daughter of Orozio Gentileschi and Prudentia Montone. Artemisia grew up a neighborhood where she was surrounded by different artist both local and foreign. Artemisia was one of the first female artist to be recognized in the male dominated world of post-Renaissance art. She was also the first woman to paint major historical and religious characters.

Artemisia received her early training from her father and despite her ability she was rejected by the art academies. The Madonna and child is considered to be one of her early painting although it is said to be the work of her father. She however continue to study under her father friend Tassia. During the time of Artemisia study with Tassia, her father accused and file a suit against Tassia for raping her. The publicity and trauma influence her painting and changes her theme to graphic and symbolic works which were attempts to deal with her physical and psychological pain. The second painting shows the Bible heroine Jael who delivered the enemy of Israel into the hand of Gideon, this painting depicting a strong woman who took matters into her own hands. 

After Artemisia death her work went into obscurity, however in 1989 she was rediscovered by Mary D. Garrard and her first exhibition was held in Florence in 1991. She has been brought to light since and a film has brought her visibility as an important artist.