There is an international outcry over the underappreciation of women in the arts. I will introduce those who have paved the way for today's women.

Sappho was a lyric poet who lived on the Greek island of Lesbos. As an archaic poet from the 8th century – 6th century BC, she was called the "Tenth Muse" by Plato and known as "The Poetess".

She wrote about the power of love - "Come to me now once again and release me from grueling anxiety."

Theano was the first known woman mathematician in history. She was the wife and/or student of Pythagoras, during the 6th century BC. Her name means "goddess."

Iaia of Cyzicus, aka Lala or Lalla, was a Greek painter and ivory carver born 100 BC during the Roman Empire. Most of her paintings are of women or self-portraits.

Iaia was referred to as "Marcia" by the Italian writer and poet Giovanni Boccaccio.

Pliny the Elder said of Iaia, "No one had a quicker hand than she in painting."

Hypatia of Alexandria, Egypt was the first woman to study and teach philosophy, astronomy, and mathematics. She died in 415 AD and is considered one of the greatest female scholars.

Sofonisba Anguissola (1532-1625) was an Italian Renaissance painter known for self-portraits and portraiture of her family. She is one of the first known female artists recognized internationally.

Elisabetta Sirani (1638-1665) was an Italian Baroque painter and printmaker who died suddenly at the age of 27.

Sirani was one of the first successful female artists in Bologna, Italy. She is known for her self-portraits, public altarpieces, and private commissions.

Plautilla Bricci (1616-1705) was a 17th century Roman architect, painter, and sculptor active in Baroque Rome. She was the first professional female architect in Italy and perhaps in Europe.

Plautilla designed the third chapel on the left aisle in the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi, Rome and was the daughter of Giovanni Bricci (artist, poet, actor, comedian, musician, and composer).