Through my studies, I've encountered Artemisia Gentileschi and she has instantly become my one of favorite female artists. She inspires me. Her art focuses on a heroic female. Artemisia was a survivor of rape. Instead of letting it destroy her, she derived strength from it. In Judith Slaying Holofernes, she narrates a story from the Old Testament, the Book of Judith.

The story goes somewhat like this. Judith helped free Israel from its enemy, the Assyrians. One night Holofernes general invited Judith to his tent. While he was asleep, she with the help of her servant, cut off his head.

I identify with the rage she depicts and her courage in showing a female in a position of power. Through her work, Artemisia Gentileschi deals with themes of female empowerment and strength. She enchances the drama of the moment by her use of dark and light. She is a follower of another 17th century artist, Caravaggio whose known for his naturalism and chiaroscuro style.

Through her treatment of Judith, Artemisia humanizes her. I see Judith's strength, determination, and courage in contributing to the freedom her country. She gives me strength. Artemisia does through her art what I want to do through mine - to inspire, to give hope and strength to women.

Reference:
"Garner's Art Through the Ages: The Western Perspective, Eleventh Edition" Judith Slaying Holofernes ca. 1614 - 1620. Oil on canvas. 6' 6 1/3" x 5'4". Galleria degli Uffizi, Florence, Italy.