IWD 2025

What if I told you the history of art is a lie?

For centuries, we’ve been spoon-fed a version of art history that conveniently forgot about, oh, I don’t know, half the population? Women and marginalised artists have always been here. They were just erased, dismissed, or shoved into the category of “outsiders” while the same few names got all the credit. Their work was groundbreaking. It just wasn’t written into the books.

And this isn’t just some dusty injustice from the past. Stats from the art world right now, women make up nearly two-thirds of UK art graduates but only thirty-five per cent of represented artists., then when critically considering factors such race, gender identity, and other intersections the statistics become increasingly alarming.

Seventh Circle isn’t perfect. However, we know the problem, and we’re doing something about it. Representation isn’t some box to tick. It’s the bare minimum. Change doesn’t happen by wishing. It happens when we show up, when we look, when we support.

That’s why this matters. Not for ‘diversity’ brownie points, but because the history we were given is factually incorrect. It only told one side of the story. The real story of art includes everyone, and it’s about time we tell it.

So where do you start? By seeing the art. Go to your local galleries and art spaces. Discover the artists who have always been here, creating, pushing boundaries, and setting the standard. Whilst in the gallery, you'll notice a donation box. We support @anawim_bcw an incredible charity helping women in need because real change happens in communities, too

And if you want to lean into this further, there’s one read I would recommend to add to your ‘to read’ list, The Story of Art Without Men by Katy Hessel. It is a retelling of the History of Art, shifting the focus away from the traditional male dominated canon to highlight the significant contributions of women artists throughout history.

Let’s not just rewrite history. Let’s tell the right history. Let’s change the narrative.

Marie Hutton

Co- Director

Seventh Circle Artworks & Aesthetics LTD