In the early years of the 20th century, women artists had a difficult time gaining recognition. This was especially true in the discipline of sculpture, a medium that was physically demanding and often required nude models. Enter Camille Claudel, a French sculptor who excelled in the “impolite” art form. As the critic Mirbeau famously exclaimed, “We are in the presence of something unique: a revolt of nature: a woman genius.” The Art Institute of Chicago celebrates the trailblazer who defied the gender norms of her time. —Elena Clavarino