Finland is considered one of the leading countries with regard to women’s rights and equality. The country’s first art school was established in the mid-nineteenth century, offering not only art education for men but also for women. It was unusual for that time since Finnish women struggled with their place in society. Despite that, they had more freedom as they were allowed to pursue their studies in art and even obtain a career as an artist.
To commemorate Japan’s 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Finland, the National Museum of Western Art is hosting an exhibition with works from the collection of Ateneum, Finnish National Gallery. Works by female artists such as Helene Schjerfbeck (1862-1946) and Sigrid af Forselles (1860-1935) are among the highlights.