Exhibition Celebrating Women Who Changed the World Opens at the Museums Quarter

Ever flick through a history book and feel like some of the best stories are missing? You know, the ones about the people who really shook things up but didn't always get a whole chapter to themselves. Well, a new exhibition opening in Hull is setting out to change that, putting twenty incredible women right back in the spotlight where they belong. It’s a bold, colourful, and seriously inspiring look at the women whose achievements helped shape the world we live in today. This isn't just any old history lesson; it's a vibrant story told through incredible art.

A colourful look at history's game-changers

Opening on 13 February, the 20 Historical Women Who Changed the World exhibition is a powerful series of paintings that you can catch at the Museums Quarter. It’s the work of the brilliant Doncaster-based artist Chinwe Russell, who has a knack for creating big, bold artworks that really make you stop and look. This collection is no exception. The exhibition is an explosion of colour, showcasing striking portrayals of women who broke the mould in everything from science and art to healthcare and civil rights. It’s a journey through female achievement that covers hundreds of years of history.

Of course, you’ll see some familiar faces. There are paintings of influential figures like scientist Marie Curie, who completely changed our understanding of radioactivity, and Florence Nightingale, the woman who basically invented modern nursing. But what makes this exhibition extra special is that it also celebrates women whose stories are less often told. These are women whose incredible contributions still ripple through modern society, even if their names aren't as famous. It’s an educational and eye-opening experience that shows how the world has been changed by so many different people, from all sorts of backgrounds. The entire series is a testament to the power of art to tell a compelling story.

The artist behind the inspiring art

The visionary behind these powerful paintings is Chinwe Russell. A Nigerian British artist and a respected industry leader, she’s known for creating art that connects with people on a deep level. Her work isn't just about painting a pretty picture; it’s about telling a story that matters. She draws her inspiration from global histories and a whole range of different cultures, weaving them together to create a visual language that everyone can understand, no matter where they're from. This approach makes her art feel universal and incredibly relevant.

This particular collection of work is a fantastic example of her talent. Each painting is more than just a portrait; it’s a celebration. The exhibition is both inspiring and educational, offering a fresh perspective on history and the vital role women have played in it. Through her bold and colourful style, Chinwe Russell highlights the achievements of these trailblazers, reminding us of the shoulders we all stand on today. The collection is a must-visit for anyone who loves art with a message and a story to tell.

How a Netflix series sparked an idea

Sometimes, the best ideas come from the most unexpected places. For Chinwe Russell, the spark for this entire exhibition came from settling down to watch a TV series. It’s a great story that shows how inspiration can be found anywhere, even in the media we consume every day.

Chinwe Russell said:

In 2018, I watched a Netflix series called ‘Magnificent Century.’ This was the beginning. In that series, I discovered the incredible story of Hurrem Sultan, an Ottoman queen. The story traced the rise of this young ambitious slave who battled against all odds to become the official queen of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Just think about that for a second. An entire exhibition, born from one story. She continued:

“How did a slave girl become the queen of one of the most important empires in the world? The story of Hurrem was the inspiration behind this collection; women who battled against all odds to change the world around them.”

That single question about an Ottoman queen became the driving force behind a collection that celebrates twenty women who did just that. It's a powerful reminder that history is filled with people who refused to accept the hand they were dealt and instead changed the game entirely.

More than just a museum trip

This exhibition is definitely something special. It manages to be both fun and deeply meaningful, making it a perfect outing for families, friends, or anyone looking for a dose of inspiration. It’s the kind of educational experience that doesn’t feel like a lecture. Instead, it feels like discovering secrets from the past. The art is so vibrant and alive that it pulls you right into the stories of these amazing women.

Councillor Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure, summed it up perfectly: “It is fantastic to see such a bold and educational exhibition opening in Hull. From science to healthcare, these twenty women changed the course of history, and seeing their stories brought to life through such striking art is a real treat for our residents and visitors. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to be inspired this season.”

Seeing these portrayals is a powerful experience. It’s one thing to read about female achievement in a book, but it's another thing entirely to stand in front of a colourful, larger-than-life painting that captures the spirit of these influential figures. It truly is a must-visit event.

Planning your visit

Ready to get inspired? The exhibition is spread across two fantastic locations, so you get a double dose of history and culture.

• What: 20 Historical Women Who Changed the World Exhibition

• Where: Streetlife Museum and Wilberforce House Museum, Hull

• When: Friday, 13 February to Sunday, 12 April

There's plenty of time to catch this fantastic collection of art. For more details on opening times and how to get there, it’s a good idea to check out HullMuseums.co.uk before you go. Don't miss the chance to see the bold story of the women who changed the world.