Disrupting a gendered mythos of artistic creativity: A critique of the “lone genius” narrative

Abstract

Creativity, a central concept in the art discourse, has traditionally been associated with the narrative of the ‘lone genius’. This archetype is predominantly masculine, highlighting a gendered concept of artistic creativity. This limited conceptualization not only marginalizes the societal roles of individuals but also perpetuates gender imbalances in the art world, often favouring male artists. Through a gender analytical lens, this article critiques the narrative of the lone genius and re-evaluates the concept of artistic creativity. By rethinking the definition of ‘artist’, this article moves beyond the narration of a lone genius to embrace the collective essence of artistic creation. The feminist art movement underscores this, blending personal narratives with political agendas, highlighting art’s role as a socio-political catalyst. By unmasking biased perceptions of artistic creativity and highlighting the resulting disparities, this article argues for a more inclusive and gender-aware understanding of creativity, promoting a more equitable art landscape.