In 2018 I set out to showcase the wisdom of inspiring, insightful women by making 100 portraits, each one paired with a quote and hand-cut from a single piece of paper. Both historical and modern, Women’s Wisdom Project also included interviews published on my website. 

This work has reminded me of how many incredible women there have been throughout history, and how little we learn about them, but also, how many women have been written out of that history. 

Making 100 portraits is a large endeavor. But the number 100 is miniscule compared to how many inspiring, insightful women have come before us, are around us today, and who will lead us tomorrow. What do we lose when we disregard their stories? When we don’t give them a platform? 

History, stories, and wisdom are complex and nuanced, in stark contrast to the simplicity of my medium’s black and white nature. I hope this work sparks a conversation, that it is a springboard for learning more, not just about women in history, but about the stories of women around us. 

As activist Yuri Kochiyama said, “Not everything is taught to us in school. It’s up to us to find out.”

This is a selection of the original body of work, as well as some new ones as the project evolves.

More information:

annabrones.com/womens-wisdom-project

All pieces are $450. To inquire about purchasing please email anna.brones@gmail.com