Meaning: Judy Chicago, a prominent feminist artist, made this statement in the context of her lifelong commitment to creating art that reflects the deepest and most profound concerns of humanity. Her work has often been intertwined with feminist themes, and she has been a leading figure in the feminist art movement since the 1970s. Chicago's quote encapsulates her belief that feminism is not only relevant to women but is essential to the broader human experience.

In her quest to create art that resonates with universal human experiences, Chicago has focused on themes such as birth, creation, and the female experience. Her most famous work, "The Dinner Party," is a monumental installation that celebrates the achievements of women throughout history. The piece features a triangular table with 39 place settings, each commemorating a significant woman from various historical periods. Through "The Dinner Party" and other works, Chicago has sought to elevate the female experience to its rightful place in the realm of myth and history.

When Chicago asserts that "feminism is humanism," she is underscoring the idea that the pursuit of gender equality and the recognition of women's experiences are fundamental to the broader project of human liberation and understanding. Her statement reflects a belief in the interconnectedness of human experiences and the necessity of acknowledging and valuing the contributions and perspectives of all individuals, regardless of gender.

In the context of the historical moment at which Chicago made this statement, it is important to consider the broader social and political landscape. The 1970s, when Chicago emerged as a prominent artist and activist, was a time of significant feminist activism and cultural shifts. The women's liberation movement was in full swing, and feminist artists were challenging traditional art forms and the male-dominated art world. Chicago was at the forefront of these efforts, using her art as a platform for advocating feminist principles and highlighting the importance of women's experiences.

Chicago's assertion that feminism is humanism also speaks to the intersectional nature of her work. While her art has been foundational to feminist art history, Chicago has also been committed to addressing the experiences of women from diverse backgrounds and identities. She has emphasized the importance of inclusivity and representation, recognizing that the struggle for gender equality is interconnected with broader social justice movements.

Furthermore, Chicago's statement can be viewed in the context of ongoing debates about the relevance of feminism in contemporary society. By asserting that feminism is humanism, she challenges the notion that feminism is a niche or specialized concern, emphasizing instead its centrality to the broader project of understanding and addressing the complexities of human existence.

In conclusion, Judy Chicago's quote encapsulates her commitment to creating art that speaks to the deepest and most mythic concerns of humanity, with a particular focus on the experiences of women. Her assertion that feminism is humanism reflects her belief in the interconnectedness of human experiences and the necessity of recognizing and valuing the perspectives of all individuals. As a pioneering feminist artist, Chicago has used her work to challenge traditional narratives and advocate for gender equality, making a lasting impact on the art world and beyond.