Women of Steel

During the First and Second World Wars, many women in Sheffield were conscripted to work in the city’s steel factories. They took on dangerous and physically demanding work to keep the steel industry running, often while managing domestic duties at home. Despite their vital contribution, their hard work and sacrifices went largely unrecognised. When the men returned from war, these women were dismissed and forgotten, “like yesterday’s fish and chip wrappers.”

Decades later, the Women of Steel themselves brought their stories to light, and their extraordinary efforts have since been commemorated by a statue in Sheffield city centre a lasting tribute to their courage, endurance, and strength. Some of their remarkable stories are shared in Women of Steel by Michelle Rawlins.

This body of work reflects the grit, determination, and steadfast character of those remarkable women. Using offcuts of rusted sheet steel combined with oil paint, I aim to honour their legacy and give form to stories that were almost lost, stories that might have quietly faded, like the rusting metal they once worked with.

If you’re interested in purchasing a Women of Steel painting, or would like more details about the series, please email me at jane@janehoward.me.uk.