Iconic Women celebrated at dot-art gallery

Liverpool’s dot-art gallery marks Women’s History Month with a new exhibition featuring the work of three female artists.

Iconic Women, running from February 14 to March 29 at the city centre venue, focuses on the artistic practice of Charlotte Weatherstone, Kirsten Todd and Mariana Potetenko.

It features portraits of actresses, singers, musicians, sportswomen and scientists, including Liverpool-born Kim Cattrall, Cilla Black and Beth Tweddle who appear alongside female music stars like Tina Turner and Debbie Harry, and pioneering women’s health professor Louise Kenny.

From local legends to the world stage, they each show characteristics of excellence, channelling their talents and strength to rise – with dot-art pointing out “a rising tide raises all boats.”

Illustrator, designer and mural artists Weatherstone, who studied graphics at LJMU, is showcasing a series of illustrated and mixed media portraits of female music artists like PJ Harvey, Courtney Love and Björk.

She says: “These artists have influenced and inspired me at different stages of my life, not only through their groundbreaking music but also through their bold live performances, candid interviews, revolutionary fashion and, most importantly, their unapologetic attitude.”

Todd works mainly in acrylics and aims to capture, vibrancy, energy, strength, balance and beauty within the people she paints. Her latest series of portraits is titled Rise of the Divine Feminine, celebrating the strength of womenkind.

The works in this exhibition focus on ground-breaking and fiercely original women of predominantly the entertainment world.

And Potetenko, who settled in Liverpool in 2022 after her home country Ukraine was invaded, says: “I was deeply moved to be part of this exhibition dedicated to the famous women of this city. The process of creating these portraits allowed me to connect with the city on a deeper level and to celebrate the women who have left an indelible mark on its history.

“My selection includes women from diverse backgrounds and fields, each of whom represents a unique aspect of Liverpool’s rich heritage.”

All the work in the exhibition is for sale.

Women's History Month, taking place each March, highlights the contribution women have made to events and society throughout history and it includes International Women's Day which is celebrated on March 8.

Iconic Women is at the dot-art gallery in Queen Avenue, off Castle Street, from February 17 to March 29. It is open from 10am to 6pm, Tuesday to Saturday.

Top: Portraits of Siouxsie Sioux, Beth Tweddle and Björk are among those featured in the exhibition.