Without Hands: The Art of Sarah Biffin

The book "Without Hands: The Art of Sarah Biffin" celebrates the work of the 19th-century disabled artist who has been overlooked by art historians. Her artworks, many signed "without hands," showcase her talent and determination despite the challenges she faced. Born with phocomelia, Biffin learned to sew and write and later worked as a miniature painter and independent artist. She took commissions from nobility and royalty and recorded her own likeness through self-portraits. The book and exhibition aim to celebrate Biffin as a disabled artist who challenged contemporary attitudes to disability.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2022
Publisher: Paul Holberton Publishing Ltd

Without Hands: The Art of Sarah Biffin is a captivating exhibition that accompanies a major show at Philip Mould & Company. This remarkable book celebrates the life and legacy of the 19th-century disabled artist who has been largely overlooked by art historians.

Sarah Biffin (1784–1850) hailed from modest beginnings but achieved fame as a talented miniaturist in the 19th century. As a working-class, disabled female artist, her artworks, many proudly signed "without hands," are a testament to her talent and unwavering determination. Despite her prolific artistic output, Biffin's life and work have been largely ignored by art historians until now.

Born with the condition 'phocomelia,' described on her baptism record as "born without arms and legs," Biffin spent her childhood in her family home, where she honed her sewing and writing skills. Later, she was employed by Mr. Dukes, who operated a traveling sideshow, where Biffin would captivate audiences with her writing and painting. The crowds who attended her performances were treated to a sample of her writing as part of the ticket price.

In her mid-twenties, Biffin embarked on formal training under the guidance of miniature painter William Marshall Craig. From 1816 onwards, she established herself as an independent artist, traveling extensively and showcasing her artwork across the country. Eventually, she settled in Liverpool, where she continued to excel in her profession. Throughout her long and illustrious career, Biffin secured commissions from nobility and royalty, as well as capturing her own likeness through exquisitely detailed self-portraits.

Collaborating closely with the project advisor, artist Alison Lapper MBE (born with the same condition as Sarah Biffin 180 years later), and consultant and contributor, Professor Essaka Joshua (specialist in Disability Studies), this book provides a comprehensive exploration of Biffin's life and art. It sheds light on her challenges and triumphs, showcasing her remarkable talent and resilience.

Through a series of stunning illustrations and insightful essays, Without Hands: The Art of Sarah Biffin celebrates the life and legacy of this extraordinary artist, whose contributions to the world of art have been long overdue. This book and exhibition serve as a testament to the power of creativity and the indomitable spirit of those who face adversity with determination and grace.

Dimension: 250 x 190 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913645366