Art is at the heart of the Women of Ohio project because it gives shape to what is often invisible: the lived experiences of women, the layers of our histories, our survival, and our joy. These Ohio artists invite us to look deeper, to listen more carefully, and to honor the stories of women from all walks of life who shape this place. By centering art, Women of Ohio insists that imagination is not an escape, but a kind of power. A way to build community. A way to witness truth. A way to heal, to question, and to reimagine the future.
One essential aspect of our 2025 projects was a call for artworks featuring women from Ohio, and we received some moving and inspiring work. The artists selected are featured below.
1st Prize Marcus Jackson, Livestream
2nd Prize Rob W. Jones, The Flower Lady of Mount Vernon, Study of Edna Bryce
3rd Prize, McKenzie Gilbert, Is the Grass Greener?
4th Prize, Julie York, My Home My Land
Commended Artists
- Gail Joyce, Fury
- Emily Morgan, Ghosts 2
- Marcia Shubert – Mary Ann rescued an owl from the belfry of an old church in Amesville, OH
- Nia Nyabinghi, Nancy Wilson Song
Over the next coming weeks and months, we’ll be releasing details on each artwork and poems with a little about the women who are being honored. Please think of subscribing so that you can find out more about each piece and woman.
Women of Ohio 