More than a Muse

How many times have you seen a woman artist solely referred to as the wife, girlfriend, or worse, 'mistress' of a man in the public eye?

Throughout history, the talent of creative women – from artists to writers to filmmakers – has been undervalued, with the title of ‘genius’ reserved mainly for men.

More than a Muse unpacks the complex romantic relationships that have often ensured women remain overshadowed, anonymous and ripped off. Katie McCabe shines a light on the women who deserved credit in their time, revealing the true stories of talents like Dora Maar (the photographer, painter and writer who was reduced to the role of 'Picasso's lover') and Alma Reville (the backseat director of Hitchcock's films).

By exploring a broad scope of art movements and artists (from surrealism to silent film), she overthrows the well-worn narratives in order to give wronged female creatives the credit they deserve. Those newly given the spotlight include sculptor Camille Claudel, painter Josephine Hopper and Shirley du Graham Bois, a playwright and civil rights activist who contributed to the Harlem Renaissance.

More than a Muse re-examines our history through the lens of artistic partnership, and puts women firmly in the foreground.

About the Author

Katie McCabe is an Irish writer and editor based in London who previously practised as an Occupational Therapist before switching careers and moving into media. She is the former editor of Artists & Illustrators magazine and has written for Vice, Bitch, Little White Lies and the Time Out art and features sections as a freelance contributor. She is currently the Events Editor at Time Out London.