What is ‘More Than A Muse’?
The word "muse" has come a long way from its original meaning… and not in a good way.
In ancient times, muses were seen as goddesses who inspired artists and creatives with their divine touch. Creativity was considered completely impossible without the blessings of a muse. But over time, the rich meaning of muses got lost. Now, when we hear "muse," we often think of someone who simply inspires creativity, usually without much credit or power of their own. It’s been regulated to beautiful women who inspire powerful men… and that’s their whole legacy.
This shift simplifies what muses stand for and reflects wider issues in how women’s contributions are seen in the arts and society.
"More Than a Muse" podcast takes on the important task of broadening our view of muses. It reconnects us with the divine origins of muses and shines a light on female artists from history who have been overlooked. The podcast aims to celebrate women's achievements in today's culture and look at these issues through a feminist lens, showing how deep-rooted sexism has influenced society.
Bringing Hidden Female Artists into the Spotlight
"More Than a Muse" digs into history to share the stories of female artists left in the shadows of their male peers, seen as muses rather than talented creators. The podcast gives these women the recognition they’ve missed out on, challenging the traditional stories that often leave out women’s contributions. By doing this, it helps paint a fuller, more accurate picture of our artistic heritage. Have you heard of the woman who painted abstract works years before anyone else (Hilma Af Klint)? What about the many women put on trial to prove their works (Artemisia Gentileschi, Magaret Keane, Phillis Peters)? Or Mozart’s older sister who played piano way before he was even born (Maria Anna Mozart)? Now you can learn about all of them and more!
Celebrating Today's Female Achievements
Alongside revisiting history, "More Than a Muse" also celebrates women's work in today's pop culture. It highlights how female artists, writers, musicians, and creators are making waves, pushing against the common trend of women being underrepresented or misrepresented in the media. This celebration acknowledges their work and aims to inspire women and girls to follow their creative dreams, knowing their efforts are valuable and recognized. We also love to empower unapologetic fangirling and enthusiasm for things you care about. We’ve got episodes on Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Barbie, romance novels, and chick flicks because women’s interests are important and deserve to be celebrated.
Looking Through a Feminist Lens & Tackling Sexism
At its heart, "More Than a Muse" is driven by feminist values. It questions how the simplification of the muse reflects wider sexist attitudes in our society. By connecting historical misrepresentation with today’s challenges faced by women in the arts and broader societal views, the podcast advocates for a culture that respects and values everyone equally. We also will constantly advocate for feminine rage. So many injustices have gone on for too long and it’s time for angry women to change the world.
More Than A Muse… more than a podcast
"More Than a Muse" is more than a podcast—it's a call to rethink the concept of muses and celebrate women's roles in the arts and beyond. By exploring hidden stories, applauding current successes, and examining issues through a feminist perspective, the podcast not only informs and entertains but also encourages us to change our views. It invites us to appreciate the legacy of female creators and strive for a future where everyone's contributions are seen and valued equally. Through this journey, "More Than a Muse" captures the true essence of inspiration, promoting inclusivity, empowerment, and significant change.
