Kuvanveistäjänaiset | Kvinnliga skulptörer

Who were Finland’s pioneering women sculptors, and what were their stories? This book offers the first comprehensive overview of the lives and work of the first generations of women sculptors working in Finland. It introduces twelve artists – some celebrated in their own time, others now lesser-known – whose careers span the period from the 1870s to the 1950s.

The book is based on extensive research by Liisa Lindgren, PhD, an expert in the history of sculpture. Lindgren explores the difficulties and disappointments these pioneering artists faced, while also highlighting their courage, determination, and achievements. Sculpture was not an easy profession for women: it required specialised training, physical strength, a suitable studio, and costly materials. It was also widely regarded as an inherently masculine art form. Yet these artists pursued their calling with determination, participating actively in exhibitions in Finland and abroad. Some went on to build long and distinguished careers in sculpture, leaving their mark on Finnish art history.

The sculptors featured in the book are Alina Forssman, Evelina Särkelä, Ida Meller, Sigrid af Forselles, Hilda Flodin, Viivi Paarmio-Vallgren, Eva Gyldén, Gerda Qvist, Elsa Zilliacus, Marita Walldén, Helvi Hyvärinen and Essi Renvall.