Representing Diversity in Art and Design.

I have learnt a huge amount studying Graphic Design and Communication at York School of Art. Diversity is a massive, potentially overwhelming topic. We are frightened to make mistakes and cause offence. Identifying as a straight white British female and a veterinary surgeon I have never felt marginalised or under represented. I now understand that women artists have been underrepresented for centuries.

Guerrilla Girls.

Are women finally receiving the recognition they deserve? The Guerrilla Girls started anonymously protesting in 1985 and are still active today. I want to introduce three inspirational artists work.

Jade Fadojutimi

I saw Fadojutimi's work at the Hepworth in 2022. Her work is abstract, incorporating mark making, colour, words. Her paintings can sell for over one million pounds.

At home with family Fadojutimi identifies as Nigerian, when outside in London she feels British. She does not want to be categorised or defined by race. Fadojutimi is neurodiverse. She sees colour when feeling emotions which she expresses on her canvases.

Jade in her studio.

Nnena Kalu

Kalu produces colourful sculptures by wrapping using unusual materials and abstract drawings evoking tornadoes. She is nonverbal, autistic, the first artist with learning disabilities to win the Turner prize. The sound of her wrapping her sculptures and drawing is mesmerising.

Kalu wrapping.

Caroline Walker

Walker from Dunfermline portrays women's everyday lives. Walker depicts women at work full scale. Her work is observational, examining ordinary things we take for granted and don't always notice. She tells us her roles as mother and artist both demand 100% commitment to fulfil. Women must find a satisfactory compromise to get from one day to the next.

Walker in her studio

So are matters improving? My instinct is yes albeit slowly. The National Museum of Women Artists has the facts.

National Galleries Scotland's three main exhibition spaces feature solo shows of women artists this summer which is progress.

Is representation of women artists in galleries improving?

• Yes
• No