Sisters act

I read Charlotte’s letter about perceived gender inequality in both your magazine and the art industry, in issue 120, with great interest. As a female artist myself, I would agree we often seem to be underrepresented. Though I don’t think ImagineFX is guilty here. I’ve enjoyed ogling captivating art by the outrageous Lora Zombie, the brilliant Charlie Bowater and Rovina Cai in recent issues.

Could there be more female artists in ImagineFX and elsewhere? Of course. But we could do more for ourselves, perhaps actively seeking promotion, instead of passively relying on others to do it for us.

I read recently that men are much more likely than women to apply for jobs they don’t have the experience for. At risk of generalising, men do seem to have more natural confidence, a willingness to put themselves forward.

Firstly, female artists need to make outstanding art, so good it simply cannot be ignored. But we also need the courage to put our art forward, to promote ourselves, be as good as men at it. If we’re doing those two things, there can be no excuses from the media and other platforms. Anonymous, via email

Claire replies It’s always interesting and valuable to gain insight from within the industry, so thank you for sharing your views. What do other readers think about this – male and female? Could female artist promote themselves better? Has anyone ever felt discriminated against in the fantasy and sci-fi art industries because of their gender? Do readers want to read more about how to promote themselves as artists?