Four Brave Women and Great Role Models

19 May 2014, 09:30

(Broken Twin)

I’m often asked in interviews why there are so few female artists in the music business.

[It’s] a question I find hard to answer, as I believe there are many reasons for this, which include cultural, historical, political and sociological reasons.

However, for me role models have been and are important, as they are an inspirational resource and their acts throughout life are great examples to look up to. It’s the way they express themselves through their art that resonates in me, touches and inspires me. Though this happens regardless of their gender, I find it important to remember and mention some of the female artists that have inspired me and still continue to do so. They are brave women and great role models to any aspiring artist.

Mexican painter Frida Kahlo is inspiring to me because of her honest and fearless way of expressing her own personal pain and passion.

Danish writer Christel Wiinblad has, among other things, written the book My Younger Brother in which she describes her younger brother’s attempt at committing suicide. It is not just the courage of writing a book with such a personal subject, but also the way she uses the language that inspires me. It’s poetic, but never sentimental, and it’s beautiful and touching in its honesty.

Through art happenings, installations, paintings and performances Japanese artist and performer Christel Wiinblad has managed to build up a universe that is unique and personal. Her way of working with patterns and repetition I find very beautiful, and her courage to bring her own fear into her work I find inspiring.

I just finished reading Patti Smith‘s memoir Just Kids in which she tells the story of her own life and her relationship with artist and photographer Robert Mapplethorpe. It’s a fascinating tale about love, friendship and the vulnerable process of becoming an artist. She writes openheartedly about her thoughts, doubts, hopes and struggles, which I feel I can relate to.

Majke Voss Romme performs as Broken Twin. Her debut album, May, is out now - and you can stream it below. She’s currently on tour in Europe.