During Women’s History Month, honoring women who have made significant transformations in the arts is a necessity. Although this is the only time of the year dedicated to women, we must remember that women are at the root of the world, whether or not a month is dedicated to our legacy.
The ethereal music of the Chinese-Icelandic icon, Laufey, leaves an everlasting impression on those who listen to her songs. Born Laufey Lín Bing Jónsdóttir, her Icelandic first name is one everyone has heard before. A woman of many talents, Laufey’s musical accolades expand beyond just her whimsical lyrics. Her upbringing in a musical household allowed her to become a multi-instrumentalist who gave the genre of jazz a new meaning. Laufey has won two Grammy awards, both for Best Traditional Pop Award for her albums “Bewitched” and “A Matter of Time.” Her musical success is something that has brought clarity and empowerment for many women, as she often speaks out about misogyny and sexism in the music industry. Her heartbreaking and relatable lyrics have many fawning over what will come next for her luminous artistry.
A trailblazer for Black literature and science fiction, the soul of Octavia E. Butler has lived on through her writing for decades. The mastermind behind many well-known novels, including “Parable of the Shower” and “Kindred,” Butler’s award winning legacy has continued to climb even since her death 20 years ago. Inspired by unspoken yet very prevalent events, Butler’s book topics were inspired by themes of women’s rights, global warming, civil rights and Afro-Futurism. These themes were very controversial while she was alive, but after her passing, Butler’s books became extremely popular as books about feminism and Black dystopia began to gain popularity in the 2000s. Now, her writing is globally known, being taught in universities around the world and inspiring many to express their opinions on social justice through passionate writing.
As an astonishing Afro-Latina actress, singer and Broadway performer, Ariana DeBose has been recognized as a trailblazer for queer feminism in Hollywood. A winner of a Golden Globe, an Oscar and many other significant awards and nominations, DeBose is not a new prodigy to the performing arts industry. Beginning her acting career on Broadway, Debose performed in many popular musicals like “Bring It On” and “Hamilton.” Her role as the Bullet in “Hamilton” turned her from a theatrical sensation to a Hollywood icon. DeBose’s talent and passion for performing led her to be the first openly queer Afro-Latina woman to win an Academy Award for her extraordinary performance as Anita in “West Side Story.” Her passion for feminism and queer rights has cemented her in the hearts of many minorities striving for artistic success.
Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderón, famously known as Frida Kahlo, was an iconic Mexican artist who broke many stereotypes regarding female beauty and pain. Her legacy has been a turning point for LGBTQ+ women in art, revolutionizing the way people view femininity and queerness. The vibrant colors she used in paintings such as “The Frame” and “Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird” gave her the indescribable and famous style we see hanging in various galleries around the world. Her remarkable works have inspired many to accept their true selves, without letting physical or mental pain barricade their artistic journeys.
These powerful women are only four of many. Four of millions of women around the world who have had a huge impact on art, music, and literature. Whether they are famous Broadway sensations or regular people, every woman has shaped the world through and through. Art through the eyes of women is a concept many seem to forget while recognizing renowned artists across the globe. Nevertheless, the power of women through artistic practices is a legendary feat that others could never replicate.
