I dedicated this self-portrait to Italian Baroque painter Artemisia Gentileschi (1593-1656). Gentileschi was the first woman to enroll at the Art Academy in Florence (Accademia di Arte del Disegno). Gentileschi was heavily influenced by the techniques of Caravaggio. Although she was largely forgotten by the art world, modern art historians are now focusing on her art and accomplishments. In describing Gentileschi, art historian Mary Garrard stated: “There were many Caravaggisti but only one Caravaggista.”
