Hettie Judah's Book Challenges Artworld Exclusion of Artist Mothers

Hettie Judah's publication 'How Not to Exclude Artist Mothers (and other parents)' critiques structural barriers in the artworld that disadvantage caregivers, particularly mothers. The book, published by Lund Humphries at £19.99 in hardcover, examines exclusionary practices across areas like studios, residencies, and commercial galleries. Judah highlights issues such as evening events conflicting with childcare, lack of parental leave, and demanding travel to biennales and fairs. She argues these conventions, rooted in misogyny and legacy practices, systematically prejudice female artists who take time off for family. The text offers remedial suggestions, including split residencies, biennales with creches, and more daytime events. Case studies feature alternative models like Mother House Studios in South London and Pilar Corrias gallery, where 65 percent of artists are female. Judah targets institutions and structures, making a pro-diversity case that inclusion enriches the artworld's ideas. She acknowledges commercial realities, offering advice for women reentering the field, such as working from studio complexes and networking. The book aims to shift arts infrastructure to view family commitments as integral to creative life, breaking silence around parenting in a youth-focused industry.