Throughout March we are celebrating Women in the Arts with a connection to the Isle of Man. The aim of this series is to highlight the challenges that women face in the creative industry, share some advice to younger creatives and also to celebrate these women in their achievements.
Eileen Schaer is a Visual Artist (Painter) who we caught up with to tell us more about her experiences as a woman in her industry.
What is your professional background in the Arts?
I'm self taught. I've been professionally painting full time since 1970 and have exhibited on and off the Island.
What inspired you to pursue a career as an artist?
I was very creative as a child always drawing. I began painting seriously when I met my late husband David Fletcher (ex Head of Art at IOM College now UCM). When he went on to the Royal College of Art we moved to London. Whilst there I exhibited in some galleries and Royal Academy Summer Shows. I found inspiration mixing with creative people and visiting the British Museum, V&A and Tate etc.
What are the current challenges for women in your creative industry?
To keep fighting and achieve your goals so you can pass them on to future generations.
What progress have you seen for women in your field?
Its certainly a lot better than it used to be. There are more women painting and studying the arts than there were. Tate Modern and Tate Britain now have women directors, Maria Balshaw and Frances Morris. But I think unfortunately woman artists are still under represented in Museum and Art Gallery collections.
Share a womens empowerment moment that inspired you.
When Rose Wyllie won the prestigious John Moores Painting Prize as a woman aged 83! She said ..."When I was an art student the staff in museums were all male. It's still not as it should be, but its better"...
What do you think is the biggest issue today facing a woman of your age?
I think perhaps ageism.
How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you?
It's very important to support one another and encourage other artists when we can.
In the wake of International Womens day what is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about a career in the arts?
To reach out and support one another. Women should be empowered to pursue what they have a passion for.
