In 1940, New York is the new cultural capital of the world. New styles emerge : abstract expressionism, popart and minimalism. But the American society  is very macho until the 1970’s. The artworld only cherishes the heroïc male artist and is convinced that women simply cannot produce art.  Nevertheless, many talented women painters and sculptors produce formidable art in the new

styles. Once more, the story is that their art is unkown and ignored. Thanks to the feminist movement in art- and academic world in the 1970’s and 1980’s, some women artists start getting some small recognition: Joan Mitchell, Lee Krasner, Agnes Martin, Yayoi Kusama and Alice Neel  get a first exhibit. Still, it takes until 2008, until their works are truly appreciated,  get extravagant prices at auctions and draw world attention. Niki de Saint Phalle and Helen Frankenthaler are the exceptions to the rule and can break through in the 1960’s.