Throughout the years, female artists have been at the forefront of some of the finest art history we know, and have been an essential aspect in helping pave a way for future artists – both female and male. The likes of the rebellious Frida Kahlo and intriguing Georgia O’Keefe broke stereotypes as well as art boundaries, but some still ask: “why have there been no great women artists?”,

The question in particular comes from the late American art historian Linda Nochlin in an essay she published in 1971, which laid the foundation for an understanding of why women artists are often overlooked and overshadowed. Nearly 50 years on, The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery challenge the controversial question with a unique after-hours event on the 16th May, which shines a light on female artists who worked and lived in Britain in the first half of the 20th century.

The event will to accompany their latest exhibition, entitled “Fifty Works by Fifty British Women Artists 1900-1950”, which is an extraordinary exhibition that highlights a diverse range of female contributions to the art of 20th century Britain, through the means different styles of artwork and traditions. The exhibition was created to mark the 100th anniversary of the 1918 Representation of the People’s Act. Who said these women weren’t great?

The exhibition, nicknamed 50/50, was curated by Sacha Llewellyn. When she was putting the exhibition together, a lot of people thought she wouldn’t be able to even find 50 British women artists to show. In the end, she could have shown 500 – all of whom are great artists. She says: “It’s not just about rounding up lost heroines, it’s about retelling their stories.”

On the night of the event, Sacha will be taking you behind the scenes and exploring the amazing stories behind the art. You will also hear from local artist Katharine Holmes, who will tell a personal story about the women in her family and the three generations of art making which have influenced her as an artist today. As well as the two talks, there will also be cocktails, nibbles and a lot of great conversations.

In honour of the title of the exhibition, the event will be limited to only 50 places – so be sure to book in quickly for an evening of great art and girl power!