As the Philadelphia Museum of Art prepares to unveil its newest exhibition, "Mary Cassatt at Work," the spotlight turns to one of the most influential figures among the Impressionists. Mary Cassatt, an American artist, not only left an indelible mark on the art world but also played a pivotal role in challenging the norms of her time. With the anniversary of the first exhibition of the Anonymous Society of Painters, Sculptors, Printmakers, etc. (later known as the Impressionists), it's an opportune moment to reflect on Cassatt's enduring legacy.

The upcoming exhibition showcases a collection of paintings, prints, and pastels from the Philadelphia Museum of Art's extensive repertoire, inviting viewers to delve into the diverse facets of Cassatt's career. Born into privilege in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, in 1844, Cassatt embarked on a journey that would lead her across continents and artistic landscapes.

One of Cassatt's early works, "Mandolin Player" (1868), exhibited a realist style reminiscent of Dutch character studies, yet it also hinted at her unique perspective on female interiority. This theme would thread through many of her future works, as seen in pieces like "Offering the Panal to the Bullfighter" (1873), where Cassatt's brush captured both the ornate embellishments of clothing and the nuanced emotions of her subjects.

Cassatt's relationship with Paris was transformative, fueling her exploration of modern life and female agency. "Woman in a Loge" (1878–79) and "In the Loge" (1877–78) offer glimpses into the dynamics of female presence in public spaces, grappling with societal constraints while asserting individuality. Meanwhile, pieces like "Woman Reading" (1878–79) unveil intimate moments within domestic settings, revealing Cassatt's mastery in capturing everyday life.

The absence of shadows and the focus on flat blocks of color in her later works, inspired by Japanese art, mark a significant evolution in Cassatt's style. Notable examples include "The Letter" (1890–91) and "Woman Bathing" (1890–91), where Cassatt's prints transcend mere representation, inviting viewers into private spheres while retaining an air of mystery.

Cassatt's commitment to depicting women's experiences extended beyond her artwork. In 1893, she created the "Modern Woman Mural" for the Women’s Building at the Columbian Exposition in Chicago, celebrating women's work and cooperation across generations.

As Cassatt dedicated herself to portraying mothers and children in later years, critics grappled with her perceived departure from radical feminism. Yet, her depictions of motherhood, as seen in "Mother and Child" (1890), offer a nuanced portrayal of women's roles, validating their multifaceted experiences.

Moving seamlessly between the experimental and the enduring, Mary Cassatt's body of work continues to resonate, shedding light on the complexities of female identity and artistic expression in the 19th century. As we celebrate her contributions 150 years later, Cassatt's legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to challenge, inspire, and provoke thought.