A major exhibition tracing the creative lineage of three generations of women artists from the celebrated Nicholson family opens at
The Women’s Art Collection this week, a fascinating and rich survey of women’s artistic practice across more than a century, revealing how artistic ideas, techniques and influences are passed between mothers, daughters and sisters.
The exhibition explores works by Mabel Nicholson (1871–1918), her daughter Nancy Nicholson (1899–1977), Nancy’s sister-in-law EQ Nicholson (1908–1992), and EQ’s daughter Louisa Creed (b. 1937). These artists, working from the late 19th century to the present day, produced a remarkable variety of paintings, textiles, prints, wallpapers, stencils, fabrics and rag rugs that reflect both personal expression and broader currents in modern art and design. Many of the works on display — including original tools like lino blocks and preparatory materials — are being shown publicly for the first time.
The show is curated by Harriet Loffler, Director of The Women’s Art Collection, with support from Laura Moseley. It not only honours the individual achievements of these artists but also highlights how familial and matrilineal ties might shape artistic identity. A new commission by contemporary artist Katie Schwab accompanies the exhibition, responding to recurring motifs in the Nicholsons’ work and contemplating the passage of creative legacy across generations.
