Overgate, Dundee launches Wonder Women of Science exhibition

An exhibition celebrating twelve inspirational Dundonian women past and present has been launched by Overgate in partnership with the Dundee Women’s Festival and University of Dundee.

The exhibition, Dundee’s Wonder Women of Science, is aimed at educating children on the pioneering endeavours of the twelve women. It forms part of this year’s Dundee Women’s Festival which runs until 14th of March, including International Women’s Day today.

Leading local artist James Gemmill has created fun and informative illustrations of the notable women, with text by Matthew Jarron & Caroline Brown from the University of Dundee’s Museums and Archives, and the exhibition can be viewed across the main glass frontage of Overgate throughout March.

Among the women being celebrated are Margaret Fairlie - the first woman professor in any university in Scotland, Victoria Drummond - the first woman in Britain to become a marine engineer for the Merchant Navy, Doris Mackinnon - Professor of Zoology at Kings College London, its first woman professor, Margaret Cameron - the first woman in Dundee to become a qualified naval architect and Williamina Fleming – a pioneering Astronomer who made many discoveries that advanced science.

Each illustration within the Wonder Women of Science exhibition at Overgate includes a QR code. Upon scanning the code, children will be taken to further activities about these ground-breaking women including a crossword and colouring sheet.

Speaking about the initiative, Metta Ramsay, Retail Marketing Manager, Overgate said;

“Overgate is delighted to be partnering with the Dundee Women’s Festival and University of Dundee on the Wonder Women of Science exhibition.

“It is fitting that the remarkable achievements of these women are shared in such a high-profile way, particularly across International Women’s Day. We hope their lasting legacies will serve as inspiration for the children of Dundee – our pioneers of the future. We would encourage children and adults alike to view the exhibition either in person when passing the centre or online across Overgate’s social media.”

Prue Watson, Chair, Dundee Women’s Festival added;

“The Wonder Women of Science exhibition presents a timely reflection on the women past and present who epitomise this year’s festival theme; The Power of Women.

“Like so many events, Dundee Women’s Festival has gone virtual for 2021 but we are all thrilled to be partnering with Overgate to bring this flagship element of the programme to life in such an impactful and engaging way.

“We hope people will take the opportunity to view the window artworks when possible and enjoy the other programme of talks and interactive events at www.dundeewomensfestival.org.uk  between now and the 14th of March.”