Judith Bernstein - Biography, exhibitions, news and artist's artworks

Since graduating from Yale in 1967, Judith Bernstein has developed a reputation as one of the most unwaveringly provocative artists of her generation. Steadfast in her cultural, political and social critique for over 50 years, Bernstein surged into art world prominence in the early 1970’s with her monumental charcoal drawings of penis-screw hybrids.

In reviewing Bernstein’s 2012-13 solo exhibition at the New Museum in NY, Ken Johnson, critic at the New York Times, referred to these works as «bravura performances of draftsmanship» and «masterpieces of feminine protest».

Judith Bernstein’s drawings and paintings are inspired by her early introduction to graffiti during her time at; as such, her iconic style features expressive line work, graphic images, and a biting sense of humor. Bernstein frequently uses her art as a vehicle for her outspoken feminist and anti-war activism, often provocatively drawing links between the two. Her best-known work features her iconic motif of an anthropomorphized screw, which has become the basis for a number of allegories and visual puns. Bernstein was also a participant in many activist organizations—most famously, the Guerrilla Girls and the Art Workers’ Coalition.

Her works are part of the collections of Museum of Modern Art (NY), Whitney Museum Of American Art (NY), Brooklyn Museum (NY), Jewish Museum (NY)...