Women’s Art of the British Empire

The spread of the British Empire around the globe made vast changes in the relationship of peoples to places. Because the logistics of colonization varied, countries passed in and out of the empire, some rapidly and others slower or by degrees. Multiculturalism broadened the world’s ability to read the English language and understand and adopt England’s ethics and morals. Into the early twentieth century, the posting of the British army and navy and the establishment of English-style embassies and police forces in remote colonies freed single travelers, especially women and children, of the fear of violence or kidnap. As a result, girls and women found outlets for creativity by exploring unfamiliar lands.

In Women’s Art of the British Empire, Mary Ellen Snodgrass provides an overview of multiracial arts and crafts from Great Britain’s Empire. Drawing upon primary sources, this volume encompasses a wide variety of artistic accomplishment, such as:

sewing and quilting
basketry and weaving
songwriting and dancing

diaries, memoirs, editorials, and speeches

Each entry includes a comprehensive bibliography of primary and secondary sources, as well as further readings on the female artists and their respective crafts. With its informative entries and extensive examinations of artistic talent, Women’s Art of the British Empire is a valuable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in learning about the history of women and their artistic contributions.