Change, Barvara Zarcone

For over three quarters of a century, Connecticut Women Artists, Inc. has provided a forum for women's artwork and continues to emphasize the importance of art in our society today. Each CWA member possesses a wealth of invaluable knowledge and ability which makes this a great organization.

Connecticut Women Artists, Inc. was founded in 1929 when thirteen women artists exhibited at the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford. Since exhibition opportunities for women were rare at that time these women started a society of female artists with the encouragement of Mr. A. Everett Austin, Jr. director of the Museum. The group officially incorporated in 1953. It was known as the Connecticut Society of Women Painters, Inc. in 1968.   The name changed in 1973 to what it is today - Connecticut Women Artists.                      

This organization currently has over 200 active members.  While opportunities for women have improved since 1929, there is still a need for our existence and much for us to do for today's women artists. We present one open juried show and one members’ juried show each year at varying gallery locations throughout the state.  For jurors we draw from among the most talented and significant women currently in the field of visual arts.  The artists, educators and curators who have worked with us are all outstanding women in their fields and have made important contributions to the art world.

Women artists are eligible to become members after being accepted to two open juried exhibitions.  There also an annual portfolio review, held in the fall, which solicits representative work from artists who would like to be considered for membership.  Several of these candidates are also accepted as members each year.