FOR Women’s History Month (March) the Museum of Somerset is announcing its latest exhibition which shines a light on a little-known artist and campaigner for women’s rights.

From April 1 visitors to the Museum can discover the life and work of Ivy Millicent James (1879-1965) a celebrated postcard artist and active suffragist.

Ivy Millicent James lived and worked in Weston-super-Mare during a time of great change in the role of women within society.

She was born into an artistic family and was part of the first generation of women to benefit from equal access to arts education.

Alongside her older sister Maud, she made a name for herself by publishing Christmas cards, postcards, and calendars.

Her designs were part of a postcard boom that spread across Europe at the turn of the 20th century.

Ivy was also a keen suffragist. She was active in local campaigns for gender equality and designed the banner for the Weston-super-Mare branch of the Women’s Social and Political Union.

This banner will be on display in the exhibition.

Sarah Cox, exhibitions manager, said: “Today Ivy’s story and her distinctive work remain largely unknown.

Sentimental Journeys brings together a selection of Ivy’s original watercolours, postcard, and Christmas card designs, sketchbooks, and personal effects in order to celebrate her remarkable life and achievements.”

Alongside the exhibition, the Museum is holding a series of events. Women’s history tours will uncover the stories of women’s history in the Museum collections.

A ‘Talk and Tea’ will tell the stories of three inspirational women from history. A printing workshop, inspired by Ivy’s print work in advertising, is also taking place.

Find out more at museumofsomerset.org.uk