The Club: Jennifer Dasal on Women Artists, Belle Époque Paris, and the Power of Community
We’re thrilled to share the latest episode of Art & Cocktails featuring art historian, curator, and acclaimed podcast host Jennifer Dasal. Known for her award-winning ArtCurious podcast and bestselling books, Jennifer has dedicated her career to making art history engaging and accessible. Her latest project, The Club: Where American Women Artists Found Refuge in Belle Époque Paris (Bloomsbury, 2025), uncovers a forgotten yet transformative story from the art world’s past.
About The Club
From 1893 to 1914, the American Girls’ Club in Paris offered a safe haven, residence, and creative hub for ambitious women artists who crossed the Atlantic in search of opportunities they couldn’t access at home. Part salon, part boarding house, and part incubator, the Club became a sanctuary for hundreds of women pursuing serious artistic training and independence in Belle Époque Paris.
Dasal brings to light not only the lives and art of these women but also the philanthropists and allies who made the Club possible. The book paints a vivid portrait of community, activism, and resilience in an era when women struggled for access to education, exhibition spaces, and professional recognition. Readers will also encounter the stories of artists who later became suffragists, activists, and cultural trailblazers.
With rich historical detail, extensive archival research, and an 8-page color photo insert, The Club captures the vibrancy of late 19th-century Paris while shining a light on the creative women whose legacies deserve to be remembered.
Praise for The Club
Jennifer’s work has already garnered acclaim:
“A captivating look at a glamorous and singular part of the history of women in the arts, and a testament to the power of community and support.” — Shelf Awareness
“Dasal’s engaging history pays homage to the singular space that nurtured them. A fresh look at female artists.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Through masterful research and sparkling prose, The Club feels like an exclusive invitation to a Parisian enclave during an era of artistic and social transformation.” — Michael Finkel, The Art Thief
Our Conversation
In the episode, Jennifer shares her passion for uncovering overlooked stories in art history, why Paris became the epicenter for American women artists, and how these women navigated the challenges of gender inequality in the art world. We also talk about the importance of community—both in Belle Époque Paris and for artists today.
Listen to the full conversation on Art & Cocktails and be inspired by Jennifer’s dedication to making art history accessible, surprising, and deeply relevant.
Learn More
Explore Jennifer’s work: jenniferdasal.com
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