Rebels with a Cause presents outstanding selections of painting, drawings and sculptures from The Huntsville Museum of Art’s recently acquired Sellars Collection of Art by American Women. This landmark holding celebrates the achievements of over 250 talented female artists active between the mid-19th and mid-20th centuries. Many rebelled against the convention of their day by exhibiting alongside their male counterparts, receiving awards, and pioneering the way for those who would follow. Today, art historians are rediscovering their accomplishments and establishing their rightful place in the expanding narrative of American history.

Rebels with a Cause features 55 works from the Sellars Collection that exemplify the strong effect that French impressionism had on American art beginning in the late 19th century. The exhibition is focused on works that embody the early influence of French impressionism and its precursor, the Barbizon Style. The exhibition also showcases works that adopt the various hallmarks of what became known as the American Impressionist style, as well as works that branch out beyond Impressionism’s strict definitions, reflecting more individual artistic approaches.

Subjects include accomplished florals and still-lifes, elegant portraits, engaging genre scenes, and landscapes both intimate and panoramic, reflecting many different regions of the country and world. The exhibit showcases a perennially popular style that is sure to be a great crowd pleaser.