From the earliest centuries, mothers have been a powerful and enduring subject in art, symbolising love, sacrifice, strength, and nurture. From sacred religious depictions of Mother Mary, embodying purity and devotion, to the raw emotional depth of contemporary works like Louise Bourgeois’ Maman, motherhood has been represented in countless ways across cultures and artistic movements. In this blog, we explore just a few of the many artworks that pay tribute to mothers and their profound influence.
The Evolution of Motherhood in Art
Throughout history, motherhood has been a central theme in artistic expression, reflecting societal values, changing roles, and emotional depths. The Renaissance gave us tender portrayals of the Madonna and Child, emphasising divine motherhood and grace. In contrast, the 19th and 20th centuries brought intimate, everyday moments of mothers caring for their children—seen in the works of Mary Cassatt and Berthe Morisot. Today, contemporary artists continue to explore the complexities of motherhood, from vulnerability to strength, often challenging traditional narratives.
Migrant Mother: A Portrait of Resilience
One of the most iconic representations of motherhood is Migrant Mother by Dorothea Lange. Taken during the Great Depression, this haunting photograph captures the raw endurance of a mother struggling to provide for her children. The image remains a testament to maternal sacrifice, and resonates with audiences across generations.
Mother with Two Children II, Egon Schiele
Egon Schiele's 1915 oil painting Mother with Two Children II depicts a mother with her two children, referencing traditional portrayals of the Virgin Mary and Jesus. However, Schiele presents the mother with a more troubled expression, rather than a serene one. This artwork embodies Schiele’s Expressionist style, delving into themes of human identity and the complexities of the human condition.
The Madonna of the Carnation, Leonardo da Vinci
The Madonna of the Carnation is an oil painting by Leonardo da Vinci, created around 1473. It depicts Mary standing with a carnation in her hand, while baby Jesus, attracted to the flower, sits on a cushion. This painting is a perfect choice to celebrate Mother's Day, as it beautifully captures the bond between Mary and her child.
Louise Bourgeois: Motherhood as Protection and Strength
This week, we spotlight the legendary Louise Bourgeois, whose Maman sculpture embodies the resilience and devotion of mothers. Inspired by her own mother, a tapestry restorer, Bourgeois weaves themes of protection, craftsmanship, and care into her work.
"The Spider is an ode to my mother. She was my best friend. Like a spider, my mother was a weaver... Spiders are helpful and protective, just like my mother." — Louise Bourgeois
Celebrating the Influence of Mothers in Art
Mothers have long been a profound source of artistic inspiration, symbolising love, sacrifice, and resilience across centuries of creative expression. From sacred depictions of the Madonna to contemporary explorations of motherhood’s complexities, artists have continuously reinterpreted this universal theme. Whether through the tender brushstrokes of Renaissance masters, the raw realism of documentary photography, or the symbolic power of modern sculpture, motherhood remains a subject of deep emotional and cultural significance. As art continues to evolve, so too does its portrayal of mothers—ensuring that their influence, strength, and devotion are forever immortalised in human history.