The Female Gaze: Women Artists on the Male and Female Form

How old is the male gaze? The term, which was coined by the British art critic John Berger in 1972 - and popularized by the film critic Laura Mulvey soon after - marks a half century this year. However, male objectification of female forms in art is, we can safely assert, a little more ancient. The female gaze, as both a concept, and a force within visual culture, is newer, and, perhaps consequently, far more vital. In these works, women artists give agency to female figures, and offer a different view of male subjects. If the works on your wall are showing a little gender bias, we thoroughly recommend you consider adding a few of these beautiful, valuable pieces.