The National Association of Women Artists was founded in 1889 by five innovative artists: Anita C. Ashley, Adele Frances Bedell, Elizabeth S. Cheever, Edith Mitchel  Prellwitz  and Grace Fitz-Randolph.

At that time they called it the Women’s Art Club. In 1913, they changed the name to the National Association of Women painters and Sculptors, and in 1941, they renamed the organization to the National Association of Women Artists, Inc.  Many recognized women artists have been associated with N.A.W.A. including: Mary Cassatt, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, Isabel Bishop, Anna Hyatt Huntington, Alice Neel, Louise Nevelson, Audrey Flack, Miriam Schapiro, Pat Adams, Faith Ringgold, and many others.

Our Honorary VPs include: Pat Adams, Judith Brodsky, Judy Chicago, Ann Chwatsky, Miriam Russo Enders, Marisol, Mary Ellen Mark, Ferris Olin, Faith Ringgold, Clare Romano, Dorothea Rockburne, Cornelia Seckel and Kay WalkingStick.

It is the oldest professional women’s fine art organization in the United States.  It provides a forum for women artists to share ideas and to exhibit their work.

MISSION STATEMENT

"The purpose of the Association is to promote culture and education in the visual arts through exhibitions of its member's works, lectures, art demonstrations, scholarships, awards and other educational programs.

The Association shall foster public awareness of, and interest, in works of art with emphasis on fine art created by women.  It will encourage new emerging artists through all appropriate means".

Through its exhibitions, programs, events, education programs and archive N.A.W.A. fosters awareness of the monumental contribution of women to the history of American art.

The organization is inclusive and serves professional women artists of all backgrounds and traditions.  It is a 501©3 not-for profit, tax exempt organization.  Copies of the audited financial statements are available in the office upon request.