Fab Five

May: Women Breaking Barriers in the Arts

Our monthly Fab Five round-up seeks to highlight women that have, and continue to make, history. Presenting women’s stories that have been traditionally overlooked, NWHM museum educators feature five historical pioneers and contemporary newsmakers each month that inspire us to help make the world a better place. The women featured in this month’s Fab Five are women who broke barriers in the arts. As dancers, sculptors, writers, and actors, these women serve as an inspiration to all.

Octavia Butler was a pioneering writer of science fiction. As one of the first African American and female science fiction writers, Butler wrote novels that concerned themes of injustice towards African Americans, global warming, and women's rights.

Octavia Estelle Butler

Beverly Cleary created some of the most beloved children’s book characters of the 20th century.

Beverly Cleary

Agnes de Mille was one of the preeminent American choreographers of the twentieth century.

Agnes de Mille

Edmonia “Wildfire” Lewis is considered the first professional BIPOC sculptor in the United States and the first to achieve international acclaim.

Edmonia Lewis

Cecily Tyson dedicated her career to portraying resilient African American women on the stage and the screen.

Cicely Tyson

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