Why are women readers so overrepresented in the visual arts given the limited access they had historically to the 'activity of reading'? Why were reading women considered dangerous? In this class I want to bring together a selection of works of women reading - from the Renaissance to present - to ask some loaded questions. Beginning with WHO is reading and WHAT is being read (bible, novel or newspaper) I want to explore HOW the images reflect upon social issues (women's literacy, patriarchal taboos) and crucially, HOW the images function as metaphors for voyeurism and gendered viewing. So, join me on this challenging journey as we interpret images of 'Reading women'. Male members especially welcome: we need your input and feedback.
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