Brian Sherwin 's comment on Art & Prejudice: Dealing with Sexism, Racism, and Ageism in the Art World

David, I don't think it is fair to suggest that the majority of men paint with a heavy hand compared to women. I've known amateur boxers who are painters as well-- guys who could knock me out with relative ease... yet their brushstrokes are graceful and flowing. Furthermore, I know females who would never consider painting a flower-- in fact, a few would be insulted at the suggestion.

I'm not sure it is as easy to tell-- consciously or subconsciously-- the gender of an artist simply by the technique and methods utilized as you suggest-- or by subject for that matter. If that is the case-- as far as subject goes-- it is another example of social conditioning in my opinion. We assume a painting of a puppy playing with a child is the work of a female-- when in reality it was painted by a 65 year old male who has worn hands from decades of working in a steel mill and served for 8 years in the military.

Just to be clear-- I'm not suggesting that only men can handle decades of steel mill work or military service for that matter. I'm just making a point-- someone who has worked hard in a hard line of work and endured the experience of facing death on the field of battle can be the same individual who creates delicate paintings of cheerful subjects.