Research Symposium

BIO

My name is Kelsie Fernandez, and I am from Tampa, FL. I am a second-year student majoring in Humanities and English with a minor in Communication. My research interests focus on gender inequality, blending my studies in English and Humanities. I plan to attend law school after graduating.

Artful Networks: Angelica Kauffman and Isabella Teotochi Albrizzi's Salons

Abstract

Angelica Kauffman (1741-1807) and Isabella Teotochi Albrizzi (1763-1836) are both exemplary Italian salonnières of the long 18th century. The former was a celebrated artist of Swiss origins, while the latter, of Greek origins, made herself known also through her writings: both, however, elected Italian cities as their hometowns, Rome and Venice respectively. The salon is an environment that cultivates the production and exchange of intellectual conversations and correspondence – at its core, the salon is an exchange of ideas led primarily by women. By opening their homes to a chosen public of artists, intellectuals, politicians, important foreign guests, and illustrious people, Kauffman and Albrizzi were able to cultivate fame within their own sphere of influence. I place some of these women’s canonical works in conversation with one another in order to understand how their personal success hinges on how they exercise power within their field – through art, writing, and their social network capital. Both of these women mobilized their social networks and interpersonal relationships to their advantage to defy the restrictions imposed on them because of their sex. Through analysis and comparison of the careers of these notable 18th-century Italian salonnières, it is clear that the strength of the social and cultural networks they established enhanced their societal mobility. This enabled them to garner celebrity and recognition, which ultimately contributed to the construction of their identity.

Keywords: Italian, Literature, Art, Women, Social Networks