Working Against the Grain

This lavishly illustrated book breaks new ground in
focusing on some of the many successful professional British women sculptors
active during this period. Largely unknown, the few women who have been mentioned in histories of twentieth
century British sculpture have been those who adhered to the (masculine)
Modernist canon. Organized by theme this book explores and illustrates an
unusually large number of and stylistically varied works. The social and
cultural contexts in which these women sculptors were working are investigated,
revealing how, mostly male, commentators often fixated on their gender at the
expense of seriously engaging with their work. A wide variety of sources are
used, ranging from contemporary art historical accounts to articles in popular
magazines. This book explores contemporary sculptural developments, art school training, exhibiting
opportunities, and the writings of influential critics. It also reveals how
important photography, film and the written word were in the creation of
reputations. Alongside revealing important works and individuals,
this book's originality also lies in its scope, covering diverse sculptural
genres such as decorative
sculpture and utilitarian objects for the home and garden; portraits and
statues; architectural sculpture, war memorials and ecclesiastical work.