Making Her Mark – Self Portraits I

On By ResaIn Making Her Mark

Welcome to the “Making Her Mark” Self Portraits Series! How better can we get to know some of the amazing female artists, from 1400 – 1800, than to introduce them through their own visions of self.

I have invited Rebecca Budd, curator of the online gallery – Chasing Art – to join me in unearthing more of the history of these artists.

Resa: Welcome Rebecca!

Rebecca: – Resa, I was thrilled to receive your invitation to participate in the Self Portraits segments of your “Making Her Mark” virtual event. What better way to begin this journey of discovery than with the artist, Sarah Biffin. I confess this was the first time I heard her name, which can be spelled either Sarah Biffin or Sarah Biffen.

Resa: So Rebecca, now that you’ve heard her name, I’m excited to hear what you have discovered.

The Remarkable Journey of Sarah Biffin

Born with a disability, Sarah Biffin’s remarkable journey from sideshow attraction to an artist patronized by royalty remained little known until recent years. Despite her initial challenges, her early talent blossomed into outstanding artistic ability, leading to recognition and patronage by the aristocracy. Her story serves as a true testament to the transformative power of opportunity and mentorship, showcasing the incredible potential that lies within each individual.

Born on October 25, 1784 in East Quantoxhead, Somerset, Sarah was the third of five children born to Henry Biffin, a farm labourer who later became a shoemaker, and Sarah Perkins. The baptism register noted that Sarah was born with a rare condition known as phocomelia, rendering her without arms or legs. At the age of 25, she was reported to be approximately 3 feet tall.

When she was 20, Sarah was exhibited as an attraction by a travelling showman at fairs throughout England. Even without formal training, crowds were impressed by how she used her mouth to sew, write and paint watercolours and portrait miniatures.

And then…. serendipity smiled and transformed Sarah’s destiny.

Sarah Biffin’s life was undeniably impacted by a twist of fate. It was at the St Bartholomew’s Fair of 1808 that George Douglas, 16th Earl of Morton (1761-1827) noticed her. This serendipitous encounter changed the trajectory of Sarah’s life in a profound and inspiring manner.

His sponsorship of Sarah Biffin, an artist born with a rare disability, enabled her to receive art lessons from renowned painter William Craig of the Royal Academy of Arts. Notably, George Douglas is remembered for his patronage of the arts and his support of individuals with exceptional talent.

As a result of the Earl of Morton’s support, Sarah’s artistic skills developed considerably. By the time she reached her 30s and 40s, she had become an extraordinarily talented artist, often considered to be as good as the best portrait miniaturists of her time. This period marked a significant ascent in her artistic prowess, solidifying her legacy as a remarkable and influential artist.

Patronage, Marriage & Legacy

Sarah’s exceptional artistic talent earned her prestigious commissions, including from the Royal Family, leading to her widespread popularity and acclaim. This royal patronage elevated her status and contributed to her flourishing career as an artist.

On September 6, 1824, Sarah entered into marriage with Stephen Wright in Kilton, Somerset. Despite the eventual end of the marriage, Sarah continued to exhibit under her married name in the years that followed.

Sarah’s influence extended beyond the realm of art, as she was prominently featured in the works of renowned author Charles Dickens. Dickens referenced her in several literary works, including “Nicholas Nickleby,” “Martin Chuzzlewit,” “Little Dorrit,” and “A Plated Article,” underscoring her cultural significance and enduring legacy.

Sarah’s Last Self-Portrait

Resa – Rebecca, what an honour it is to have seen this portrait in real life. I took one close up within the glass free board frame, and one how it was on the wall. It’s a real treat to not have to look through glass. I hope my photography does it justice.

Rebecca – Your photos allowed me to step through the screen and join you virtually at the AGO.  It was as if I were viewing the paintings in person. 

Resa – Rebecca, I am so happy you are here! Thank you for joining me!

Rebecca – Thank you, Resa, for the invitation to join you on this profound “art” journey. I am thrilled to be sharing “Making Her Mark” with you.  Thank you for your extraordinary vision of creativity within our complex, evolving world. You have redefined the art world through your unparalleled leadership, emphasizing compassion and hope as guiding principles. Your profound understanding of art’s transformative power has inspired me and countless individuals, fostering a deeper appreciation for the inherent beauty and significance of artistic expression.

Resa – Thank you, Rebecca! Graciously and humbly.

I hope you all enjoyed this close up feature on Sarah Biffen. A million thank you’s to Rebecca Budd for joining me, with her fabulous research, in this Self Portraits series. Rebecca and I will be back with further instalments highlighting other women who made her mark with art.

Click on the banner above to view some of the site links Rebecca found and used for her research. The Artnet link reveals many of Sarah’s works. Unfortunately none are for sale

Visit Rebecca at CHASING ART! Here you will also find links to her other blogs and Podcast Tea, Toast and Trivia

Photos of Sarah Biffen’s self portrait taken by Resa – May 14, 2024

Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto, Canada

166 thoughts on “Making Her Mark – Self Portraits I”

  2. Hi Resa, Hi Rebecca, what a marvellous post. I really enjoyed learning about Sarah and her remarkable artwork. Incredible that she painted watercolours on ivory which is so waxy, as the video mentioned. It is truly inspirational how some people manage to overcome so much adversity and achieve such amazing heights.

    Reply

    1. Hello Robbie,
      Yes, Sarah overcame a lot, more than most, especially in her time. She is an inspiration. The art she left behind is a treasure.

      It’s a wonderful series of 5 women artists Rebecca is on board with, and we have a short one on documentation of the poor after that. (1600’s & 1700’s) by 2 different women.
      Making Her Mark is an amazing and revealing exhibition.

      Reply

    2. Robbie – I am thrilled to be on this quest with Resa. I say “quest” because it is a treasure hunt into the past. I had never heard of Sarah Biffin before Resa sent me her painting and name. It was exciting to go back in time to find out about Sarah’s life. My greatest takeaway was how Sarah accepted opportunities as they came to her. I was amazed by her ability to take risks. My thought “would I have been as brave?” YIKES!

      Resa has a marvelous way to bring art into our community. “Marking her Mark” is a celebration of women embracing their creative spirit without fear.

      Reply

  3. Thank you, Resa and Rebecca, for this post. I don’t remember hearing of Sarah Biffin before. She had such incredible talent, and it was indeed fortunate that she received patronage when she did.

    On female artists–we’re seeing a play about Hilma af Klint.

    Reply

    1. Welcome and thank you, Merril!

      That show MHM really took a lot of female artists out from the shadows.
      Lots to do, to share, between street art posts. Thank goodness Rebecca is on board!

      Hilma af Klint, omg… so cool! Huh.. a play about an artist, especially a female. That seems unique. I look forward to your thoughts on it!

      Reply

      1. You’re welcome, Resa.
        Yes, I think until recently you rarely heard much about female artists–Artemisia Gentileschi or perhaps Cassatt or Kahlo. We saw an exhibition on Henriette Wyeth a few years ago.

        Anyway, I misspoke, it was a contemporary opera not a play. It’s a theater that does very interesting work. The opera explored intersections of gender and art and queerness. I wrote a bit about it in my musings today.

        Reply

            1. Nothing serious. Whew…but totally annoying. I see a service call in the very near future. Maybe next week.

              My Maytag lasted 25 years. Then I bought this…this …ahem.. modern thingmabob.
              I’ve had it a year and a half.
              They really know how to make junk these days.
              Quantity over quality.

              Reply

    2. You and me both, Merril. I am grateful to Resa for the introduction. How wonderful to be able to attend a play about Hilma after Klint. She was remarkably intuitive!!!!

      “The pictures were painted directly through me, without preliminary drawings and with great power. I had no idea what the pictures would depict and still I worked quickly and surely without changing a single brush-stroke.” Hilma af Klint

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Dave!
      It’s inspiring what a person can do, despite having been dealt a bad hand.
      All she had was a card… a 6 maybe, but she won the pot.

      Reply

    2. Thank you, Dave. I am heartened by the advancements that have been made in the area of diversity. My heart went out to Sarah when I read that she was showcased as an oddity.

      Reply

      1. It IS heartening, Rebecca, that there’s more welcoming today of diversity (albeit with some unfortunate backtracking “thanks” to some less-tolerant people). And, yes, heartbreaking when a person is considered an oddity rather than the fully human person they are.

        Reply

  6. What a fascinating intro into the life of Sarah Biffin. To create what she did, using only her mouth is incredible and astounding. The details! Wow.

    Thank you Sorceress and Rebecca for a wonderful collaboration. Looking forward to the next in this important series.

    Reply

    1. Thunder!

      Sarah was uber remarkable. I’m thrilled she is included in the MHM exhibition.

      Rebecca dug up some terrific research on Sarah. She already sent me the research on the next artist. She’s also on board for some engraving art depicting the poor in the 16 & 1700’s.

      I’ll be posting some street art and a book review in between MHM posts. It could take me a bit to get through all the categories. What a joy!

      xoxoxo

      Reply

      1. She truly was!

        I’m so going to enjoy this whole series, I don’t doubt. I love this collaboration with you and Rebecca.

        Woot! That makes sense, to give us some balance 🙂

        xoxoxoxo

        Reply

      1. Hi Rebecca. I am not worried in the least and am so looking forward to it. She really does, doesn’t she? And she chooses the perfect collaborators.

        Reply

    1. Thank you for this lovely comment, Michael!
      Rebecca and I are addicted to art.
      It’s a wonderful thing to be able to present some women & Their art from the past.
      Best wishes back to you!

      Reply

    2. I am delighted that you enjoyed this post, Michael. I am beyond thrilled that Resa introduced me to Sarah Biffin. Resa has given me the name of the next artist, but she is keeping the last three names “secret” which makes this collaboration so exciting for me. It’s always a mystery – a real treasure hunt into the past!!!

      Reply

  8. I bookmarked this to come and read at liesure today, having bene somewhat busy all week on the mr’s play. Anyway ladies??? This is brilliant . i love the concept of the blog, Of course I expected no less. Two great laides bring a third one to life xxx

    Reply

    1. Play away on the play! (I know it’s work… but it’s the art kind)
      What a wonderful project to be busy with.

      “Two great laides bring a third one to life”.. omg…thank you!
      xoxoxo

      Reply

      1. But you are xxxxx And you know I think you’d ahve liked the Keiller Centre where we took the play. it is a run down trying to get on its feet place now, Lots of empty units BUT the ones taken are mainly by artists. And there’s apop up wewe theatre in one of the unit.s Oh and Murals galore xxxxxxxxxxxxx

        Reply

        1. OMG! Sounds heavenly.
          We are so lucky to be engaging in the arts.
          Or as I say,Luxuriating in the arts!

          Ah… almost finished a drawing of AGM Shey for the L’Éte de l’Amour post… aka The Gown-In! xxxxxxxxxx

          Reply

    2. Shey – I am excited to hear John’s play “O Halfins and Hecklers a Weavers and Weemin” is on!! Wish we could beam over to join you and The Keillor Centre. Tell John to stay turned for an audio coming his way soon. Don is in the finishing stages!!!

      You will enjoy this series for women artists. I had never heard about Sarah Biffin before until Resa e-mailed me her painting and name. A truly remarkable artist.

      Reply

      1. Well, it was quite a week, from some teenagers putting in a window at 5 on Thursday as the place shut for the night to the public, via us holding a vote with the audience on Fri re putting on the overheads after the lights conked on Fri to me doing guided tours of the dressing rooms…there were none… on the Sat, to folks, who included a member of the rock band Deacon Blue, being introduced to someone who was a Lemmings’ game designer and nearly landing a gig at the DUndee Fringe with two other cast members, after our impromtu version of Cohen’s Hallelujah, which we started for an abso giggle after one of us was ‘ naughty ‘enough to pick up our guitarist’ guitar which he had left sitting in the playing space YET AGAIN while we were tryoing to go over some scenes, while he nipped off, drew a crowd unknown to us out in the corridor . . . . .

        Reply

              1. Well yeah. last week this time we were just looking to getting through it without landing too much egg on our faces. This week we are all thinking… well we did it despite all that egg!!!

                Reply

  10. Talk about overcoming obstacles! Wow! Anyway, it is an amazing story that should be better known. I enjoyed the two videos as well as Rebecca’s quick bio. I like the idea of the last portrait as a reintroduction to the world as herself. It just has so much confidence.

    Reply

    1. If one could bottle and sell Sarah’s confidence, they could make millions.
      I can’t thank Rebecca enough for joining me on this journey. We have 4 more women (and their self portraits) to discover.

      There are also 2 female artists who documented the poor. Not sure what we will find there.

      Reply

    2. How very well said, Trent. I agree wholeheartedly. It does have so much confidence – the confidence of one who has experienced many things and has come to know what it means to be in sync with oneself.

      Reply

    2. I am thrilled that Resa invited me to collaborate on “Marking Her Mark” series. When I received Resa’s invitation, I knew that I was heading into a deep rabbit hole. Resa has given me the name of the next “Making Her Mark” post, but she has kept the others safely hidden for the unveiling. I feel like Alice……

      I am glad that you joined Resa and me in the Rabbit Hole, Liz. This is a merry adventure.

      Reply

  12. Thank you dear Resa and Rebecca. Such a beautifully inspiring post. Lovely art! This brings to mind the life of Joseph Merrick ( also known as Elephant Man). A gifted artist with physical limitations often abused until taken under the wing of a well known Dr. You’ve done a wonderful job of detailing the trials and joys of this amazing woman.
    I thoroughly enjoyed this.
    xoxoxo

    Reply

    1. Ah yes, the Elephant man. I didn’t realize he was an artist. I’ll have to check out some of his work!
      Glad you liked this dear Meece, and there are more profiles of fabulous female artists coming up.
      It will probably take months to get through everything I want to share about “Making Her Mark”.

      No worries, I have reams of street art (and some of my art) to share in between those posts!

      Art seems to be attaching itself to me. It’s like walking through a forest of burrs, only art.
      xoxoxoxoxox

      Reply

      1. I’m very excited about this project “ Making her Mark”. I’m a real feminist at heart.
        The art was always there. The hand to eye coordination that is essential to a great artist has carried you through the years designing , drawing, painting.
        You are naturally gifted and that is why you are compelled to draw and sketch and capture the essence of a human face… or a beloved pet.
        Thank you for sharing your gifts with us. It’s truly humbling and fills me with gratitude.
        Love,
        Xoxoxo

        Reply

        1. I’m a feminist at heart, too. 💚🤍💜
          Green/White/Violet – Give Women the Vote!
          A movement from the past, that is still not a reality in all countries.
          Love you so much Meece! Your poetry inspires, and sends me… all over!
          You’re right!
          I am compelled to be creative. Never thought of it that way, but it’s true. That’s a great part of why I ran away when I was a teenager. (I took a bit of a leap there, but I got a flash of clarity.)
          Ha! and I thought I was going to grow up and be a Go-go dancer.
          It’s wonderful to know you and others who actually let me share.
          xoxoxo🐭🐭xoxoxo

          Reply

        2. How very well said, Holly. Resa’s ability to nurture creativity within our community is truly inspiring. Her collaborations are especially heartening. I was thrilled to be invited to share in this collaboration.

          Reply

    2. Thank you, Holly. I am so pleased that you mentioned Joseph Merrick (aka Elephant Man). Joseph Merrick and Sarah Biffin, both faced physical challenges that shaped their lives. Despite their disabilities, both individuals displayed remarkable resilience and pursued their passions. Their lives serve as powerful examples of overcoming adversity and defying societal expectations. I am equally fascinated by the those who supported them and saw their creative spirit, beyond their physical challenges. I am reminded about the need for compassionate communities that foster inclusivity.

      Reply

      1. How wonderful it would be if regardless of personal challenges all people were accepted and appreciated for their particular abilities which we all have. Many are shut out and never achieve their full potential based on bias and discrimination. It’s heartbreaking that some of the worlds most gifted were probably left behind.

        Reply

    1. Thank you, Brad!
      Sarah is definitely remarkable. I’m so happy people have recently discovered her, and brought her out from the dark of the past.
      Of course, now that a light shines on her, her art has become pricey, and difficult to access.

      Reply

  17. Amazing post Resa and Rebecca! What an incredible woman. I didn’t know her story and it is so beautifully told by Rebecca. Than you both for the introduction. Many hugs R & R. xoxoxo

    Reply

    1. I knew you would enjoy this post, Marina! Thanks to Resa, our community now knows about Sarah Biffin. There are so many unknown stories held safe in the folds of history. I had never heard of Sarah Biffin before Resa sent me her name and self-portrait I read that Sarah’s determination and talent influenced other artists to push boundaries. Her legacy continues to inspire artists to this day. She is a testament to the power of creativity and perseverance in the face of adversity.

      Reply

  18. Wow! Just wow! Naturally I’d never heard of her. What an amazing story of determination and talent, especially at that time in history. I’m familiar with Joni Eareckson Tada who, due to a diving accident, quadriplegic. She paints holding the brush between her teeth. That’s another amazing story.

    Reply

  19. What a fantastic post, great interview Resa and thanks for introducing me to the remarkable woman Sarah Biffin! I LOVE stories of people who defied the odds and manage to accomplish phenomenal things despite their challenges.

    Thanks for introducing me to Rebecca’s blog Chasing Art, love it!

    Reply

  20. That hits my heart deeply every time I watch this injustice of the man; what a loss, what a loss!
    Sorry for my emotional outburst, but I believe there would be lots more such excellent artists if men were more awakened and not such idiots! Anyway, great post and interview with dear Rebecca, my lovely Resa. Thank goodness that these incredible artworks remained unharmed and intact. I can feel and imagine Sarah Biffin’s courage, and I appreciate it. Thank you, both ladies, for this brilliant information.🤗🙏🌸💖

    Reply

    1. Aladin,
      I’m thrilled you like this post and what it reveals about Sarah Biffen.
      Like many other women, she is finally let out from the shadows of the past, and allowed to shine on her own.
      Rebecca and I have more women artists to feature in the near future.
      It’s very exciting!
      ❦🌹🌺💖

      Reply

  21. What an amazing story.
    We had never heard about Sarah Biffin before.
    Thanks to Resa and Rebecca to introduce us to this artist
    The Fab Four of Cley
    🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂

    Reply

    1. Klausbernd,
      You are very welcome!
      We had never heard of her, either.
      Sarah was a remarkable human.
      Thank you for the lovely comment!
      Hello to the other Fab Three! ❦🌹

      Reply

    2. Hi Klausbernd – this was the first time that I heard of Sarah Biffin. It is hard to believe that she has only been featured recently in exhibit. Very few artists become household names, like Michelangelo, Da Vinci, or Monet. I love finding artists that seem to be hidden in the folds of history. So many stories to discover.

      Reply

  22. Wow, Resa. That was truly fabulous. Never heard of her and what an amazing woman. So glad you brought her to our attention. Just wonderful. Thank you. Hope you do it again with another woman artist❤️

    Reply

    1. I’m so excited! We do have more to how!
      Outside of self portraits, I took lots of pics of
      the 326 works by women from 1400 – 1800.
      I will be singing their praises over the next while, between street art and other posts. ❤️❤️

      Reply

  23. Thank you for introducing Sarah to us, Resa and Rebecca! Your interview told me a lot about this artist, her challenges, and how she is definitely one to know about!! Loving the spotlight on her xx

    Reply

    1. Resa has the most amazing ideas, doesn’t she, Christy. I am thrilled to be looking back into history to find the stories of remarkable women of strength and resilience.

      Reply

    2. Thanks Christy!
      There are many exciting women artists and artisans from 1400 – 1800 that were exhibited at the “Making Her Mark” show at the AGO.

      Rebecca will be on board for many of the posts. I’m so grateful, as there is a lot to cover!
      xx

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Debby!! Isn’t it remarkable that we can learn so much about hope and resilience from someone we will never meet up with in person – who lived in a different timeline and experienced a world that we will never know. That is why we need memoirists to record their stories which reflect the time in which we have lived. You write for us all, Debby!

      Reply

    2. Hugs back, Debby!
      You should try to make it to the “Making Her Mark” show at the AGO. It’s on until July.
      It’s eye opening, art enriching and sister loving at its best! xo❦🌹🌟xo

      Reply

  26. Utterly amazing, Resa. What an astonishing story from sideshow attraction to accomplished artist. It just goes to show that no one should ever be discounted. Everyone has the potential to be awesome with some help and encouragement. 🙂 :-). And thanks to Rebecca for joining the post with her research. This was fascinating.

    Reply

    1. I am so pleased that you enjoyed this post, Diana. Resa has the best ideas and you know how much I love finding stories that have been held safe in the folds of history waiting to be discovered!!!

      Reply

    1. It’s about time she was let out of the shadows of history, and into its light! I’m so excited about these posts Rebecca and I are doing!

      Reply

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