Gallery Oldham is set to unveil a groundbreaking exhibition, 'Women Portraits: Trades & Professions', on January 17th, 2026, showcasing the remarkable contributions of women in various fields. This captivating display, curated by renowned contemporary artist Charlotte Hodes, challenges traditional gender norms and highlights the often-overlooked achievements of women throughout history.
The exhibition features intricate papercuts and elaborately designed ceramic vases, each piece serving as a symbolic portrait of women identified by their tools of trade rather than physical attributes. From botanists and arborists to doctors and astronomers, the artwork pays homage to the diverse female labor force across different generations and social backgrounds.
Drawing inspiration from Northern Roots, an innovative urban farm and eco-park in Oldham, the exhibition explores the intersection of nature, community, and sustainability. Northern Roots, spanning 160 acres of post-industrial land, promotes activities like beekeeping, gardening, forestry, and botany, which are central to Hodes' artistic vision. These trades, along with others historically associated with Oldham, such as hatting, form the thematic foundation of the exhibition.
What sets this exhibition apart is its non-linear structure, resembling a 'mind map' that challenges conventional hierarchies and timelines. It seamlessly connects the past and present, blending fact with imagination, history with hope. The exhibition pays tribute to a diverse range of influential women from Oldham and Manchester, including pioneering suffragists like Dr. Olive Clayden, Lydia Becker, Agnes Pochin, and Rosa Leo Grindon, as well as contemporary change-makers such as beekeeper Damson Tregaskis and Northern Roots' Anna Da Silva and Kimo Morrison.
Charlotte Hodes' approach to portraiture is unique, inviting viewers to contemplate broader representations of womanhood. Instead of focusing on facial features, her work emphasizes tools and instruments, such as stethoscopes, telescopes, and beekeeping smokers, to reveal identity and status. This contemporary twist on classical portraiture conventions adds a layer of depth and intrigue to the exhibition.
"'Women Portraits: Trades & Professions' is a celebration of women's resilience and empowerment," Hodes states. "In a world facing societal and economic challenges, this exhibition aims to acknowledge the struggles and triumphs of women throughout history while emphasizing their ongoing strength and visibility."
Gallery Oldham's commitment to showcasing contemporary art that engages with history, community, and social justice is exemplified by this exhibition. It serves as a powerful reminder of the diverse contributions women have made and continues to make in various professions, inspiring future generations to embrace their potential and challenge gender stereotypes.
