The Woman Destroyed marks the first solo exhibition of Hélène de Beauvoir, the younger sister of renowned philosopher and feminist Simone de Beauvoir, in London. Hosted by the Amar Gallery, the exhibition showcases a curated selection of paintings and works on paper spanning the 1950s to the 1980s. Amar Singh, the gallery’s founder, spent three years assembling the collection, sourcing works from across the globe, and uncovering the profound significance of Hélène’s contributions to both her sister’s legacy and the global feminist movement.

Hélène de Beauvoir’s artistic journey began early. At just 15, she declared her ambition to become an artist in her diary, and she remained dedicated to her craft until she died in 2001 at the age of 85. Over her lifetime, she created more than 3,000 pieces and garnered recognition during her lifetime. The exhibition offers a rare glimpse into Hélène’s expansive artistry, with her work often exploring feminist philosophy and women’s issues, reflecting her deep engagement with the role of women in society.

Hélène’s formal training at the École Art et Publicité and her associations with notable artists like Marc Chagall and Jacques Lipchitz significantly influenced her artistic development. Her first solo exhibition took place in Paris in 1936 at Galerie Jacques Bonjean, a gallery co-founded by Christian Dior.

In 1967, the de Beauvoir sisters collaborated for the first time, blending Simone’s feminist ideology with Hélène’s artistic vision. One hundred forty-three first-edition copies of Simone de Beauvoir’s The Woman Destroyed were published by Gallimard, featuring 16 etchings by Hélène. A rare copy of this book will be on display at the Amar Gallery, offering visitors a chance to witness this pivotal moment in feminist history.

Hélène de Beauvoir passed away in 2001 in Goxwiller, France, leaving behind a body of work that remains as powerful and relevant today as it was during her lifetime.

The Woman Destroyed not only celebrates Hélène de Beauvoir’s artistic legacy but also sheds light on her enduring influence on feminist discourse. The exhibition runs at the Amar Gallery until 30 March, offering a long-overdue tribute to an artist whose work continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.