Recommendations

Women's History Month: What to see

Citra Sasmita, Act One, (detail), 2024

Discover the work of some incredible women artists and learn about women's history this month at these exhibitions.

Women's History Month takes place every March and provides an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of women throughout history while raising awareness of the ongoing fight for equality across the globe. It also coincides with International Women's Day on 8 March.

To celebrate, we've highlighted our top 10 exhibitions where you can learn about women's history or discover incredible women artists working today.

From a pioneering feminist from Manchester's punk scene at the Hayward Gallery to a celebration of a trailblazing footballer at the National Football Museum, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our round-up of some of the best museums, galleries and historic houses where you can learn about women's history and celebrate some cultural icons.

And don't forget to pack your National Art Pass for great benefits at lots of these venues.

Celebrate Women's History Month at these exhibitions with an Art Pass

01
Gina Birch, 3 Minute Scream, 1977

Women in Revolt! Art and Activism in the UK 1970-1990

Discover over 100 radical and rebellious women artists who were working in the UK between 1970 and 1990, and who made invaluable contributions to British culture and the women's liberation movement. During this period of significant socio-economic change, a new wave of feminism exploded and women used their lived experiences to create politically engaged art to fight injustice.

02
Emii Alrai, The High Dam, installation view at The Tetley, Leeds, 2020

Emii Alrai: River of Black Stone

Journey through an immersive installation of sculptural works by contemporary artist Emii Alrai. Inspired by Compton Verney's painting collection and the destructive force of volcanic eruptions, she blends ancient mythology, research and nostalgia to examine the present moment. And while you're there, don't miss Towering Dreams: Extraordinary Architectural Drawings.

03
Everlyn Nicodemus, Silent Strength 38, 1990

Everlyn Nicodemus

Witness the healing power of creativity in Everlyn Nicodemus' joyful works of art. She uses drawing, collage, painting and textiles to explore pressing issues, including the oppression of women, racism, and her own experiences of trauma and recovery.

04
Arpita Singh, My Lollipop City: Gemini Rising, 2005. Vadehra Art Gallery © Arpita Singh.

Arpita Singh: Remembering

Marvel at Arpita Singh's luminous paintings in her first solo exhibition outside India. Singh's works draw on her own emotional and psychological states to examine motherhood, the female body, vulnerability and violence. Keen to visit? Take note: this free exhibition opens 20 March.

05
Dick Kerr Ladies, World Champions 1917-25

Lily Parr: Football's first female superstar

And for fans of the beautiful game... Learn about one of football's first female superstars and an LGBTQ+ icon in this exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of Lily Parr. In spite of the Football Association banning the women's game in 1921, Parr continued playing and scored an impressive 1,000 goals during her three-decade career.