Legacy Heroines

Heroines of the past who were active at some point between the mid-20th century and the early 21st century.

From Agnès to Ylla, explore the archive of Legacy Heroines and learn about the rich lives and careers of pioneering women photographers. As we continue our mission, our online archives will continue grow.

Researched, written and curated by our volunteers. If you would like to contribute to this valuable resource, sign up to volunteer today.

Ana Mendieta. Untitled

Ana Mendieta

Ana Mendieta was a Cuban-American performance artist, filmmaker, sculptor, and painter known for her ‘earth-body’ artwork....

Black and white photograph. An image of Carolee's face is segmented into strips which distort her profile.

Carolee Schneemann

Carolee Schneemann (1939 – 2019) was an experimental visual artist known for her works on the body, sexuality, and gender....

Corinne Day

Corinne Day

Transitioning from fashion model to fashion photographer, Corinne Day proves that the only rule for success is to remain true to your vision...

Cui Xiuwen

Cui Xiuwen (1967 – 2018) was one of China’s leading contemporary artists. Her work looks at femininity, Chinese iconography and motherhood....

Dickey Chapelle

American photojournalist Dickey Chapelle (1918 – 1965) was one of the first women correspondents accredited by the military in WWII....

Dora Maar

Dora Maar

Dora Maar (1907 – 1997) was an acclaimed painter, poet and photographer who was an integral figure in the Surrealist art movement....