In the Studio 1881

Marie Bashkirtseff created "In the Studio" using oil paints on canvas, a medium associated with fine art traditions of painting. Look closely and you'll notice that this isn't just a scene of artistic creation, it's a glimpse into the working lives of women artists in the late 19th century. Bashkirtseff shows us an intimate view of the art academy, a space where women, despite societal constraints, were beginning to assert their presence in the art world. The materiality of oil paint allows for capturing intricate details of the studio, from the folds of the students' dresses to the array of canvases and drawing equipment. It’s clear that time and effort are essential to this painting’s creation, from the artist's application of the paint itself, to the labor and resources behind the art being made within the image. "In the Studio" serves as a testament to the evolving role of women in the arts. By celebrating the importance of materials, making, and context, we gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance embedded within it.