Two exhibitions in Minneapolis celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Women's Art Registry of Minnesota (WARM), a feminist artist collective founded in the 1970s. "LEGACY: The Women of WARM Gallery" at Kickernick Gallery showcases works from 73 original members, while "WARM Connections" at Form and Content Gallery features artists from the group's affiliate and mentorship programs. The collective operated the WARM Gallery from 1976 to 1991, later renamed Women's Art Resources of Minnesota, and disbanded in 2021.
The exhibitions arrive amid a federal backlash against DEI initiatives in the arts, offering a historical counterpoint by revisiting a period when identity-focused arts advocacy gained significant momentum. WARM's pioneering slide registry and educational programs helped increase visibility for women artists in museums, galleries, and classrooms. The shows highlight ongoing debates about feminist organizing and provide lessons for contemporary artists navigating similar cultural and political tensions.