A Real Woman, a public art project that debuted on 6,000 billboards across the UK, features 11 artworks addressing violence against women, health disparities, and gender identity. The project empowers art by increasing its accessibility and encouraging public conversation about gender.
Curated by Bakul Patki, the collection features work by artists including Sin Wai Kin, Joanna Hogg & Nick Turvey, Fanny Beckman, Raven Gough, Rachael House, Eri Maeda, Cristiana Nogueira, Georgie Wileman, Frances Willoughby, and Dawn Woolley. It also includes two pieces that are directly commissioned.
Patki highlights that A Real Woman is a statement to be pondered about rather than a question to be answered, with the intention of provoking contemplation and fostering knowledge of the variety of experiences that make up femininity. The inclusive curation embraces diverse viewpoints, making the work accessible to a broader audience. It aims to foster empathy and a deeper understanding of society by highlighting lives different from our own.
The project is organized by The Gallery. Leading UK arts producer Artichoke and public artist Martin Firrell launched The Gallery in 2022 to redefine art displays by creating a wall-free cultural institution. This initiative brings art into public spaces where people commute, live, and work, making it more accessible and disrupting traditional art-viewing experiences.
The provocative themes are highlighted through billboards that spark discussion and introspection on what it means to be a woman. The artworks are part of the gallery’s permanent collection and can be viewed on its website and digital archive. Steady visitor engagement ensures the exhibition’s lasting impact, while its innovative approach and commitment to diversity transform how people appreciate art in public spaces.
Over 200 million people in the UK have experienced The Gallery’s previous seasons, showcasing its widespread appeal. Helen Marriage, CEO and Creative Director of Artichoke, highlights the project’s evolution and its commitment to offering artists a platform for direct audience engagement. She underscores the importance of the collaboration with the out-of-home sector.
