Poppies with Butterfly and Self-Portrait 

Minami Keiko made "Poppies with Butterfly and Self-Portrait" using color print, likely in the mid-20th century. During this period, Japanese women artists navigated a patriarchal society, with their personal expression often challenging traditional gender roles. Keiko's self-portrait, partially hidden amongst the poppies, creates an intimate yet mysterious presence. The poppies themselves are a symbol of remembrance, while the butterfly may represent transformation. One can imagine that this artwork is a reflection of Keiko’s internal life, perhaps a response to the socio-political landscape of post-war Japan. It evokes a sense of quiet contemplation and perhaps even quiet resistance, suggesting a space where personal identity and artistic expression intertwine. The work invites viewers to contemplate the complex interplay between personal identity and cultural symbols. It offers a lens through which to consider the experiences of women artists in Japan and beyond, as they navigate cultural expectations and assert their unique perspectives.