Thhis one was an absolute delight. Broad Strokes is a vibrant, witty, and accessible celebration of women artists who’ve shaped the history of art—many of whom never got the recognition they deserved. Bridget Quinn manages to balance historical detail with personality, making each chapter feel alive and conversational rather than stuffy or academic.
The tone is smart without being condescending, and deeply engaging without losing the weight of its subject matter. Quinn brings each of these women into the room, gives them a voice, and lets them shine. Her writing feels like a friend telling you a story over coffee: personal, passionate, and brimming with admiration.
I especially loved the structure of the book. The fifteen profiles are easy to dip into, making it a great book to read over time or return to whenever you need a reminder of the sheer brilliance of women in the arts. The accompanying illustrations are gorgeous, and they add another level of connection to each artist’s legacy.
Lovely little read. Well done, so fun, and a perfect introduction to some of the fiercest, boldest women in art history.
