I apologize on behalf of all Male Artists (well at least myself)
I must confess that as a Man and a Artist I sacrificed being a better father and husband for the sake of my Art. And I am guilty of the very thing Karin brought up of not taking women Artists seriously (many times without thinking about it). Because I could not understand at the time their commitment to family and relationships over their art.
Well I am older and wiser now and I thank my wife for putting up with me over the years it's amazing I am still married when I think about what a pain I was. (And still can be)
But one thing has changed I no longer discount anyone based on gender, age or their experience. I also learned that without my family to share it with, success in my Art would be a hollow one. And I now try to make time for family and my wife.
As for Women Artists I have been bested by more then a few to know I was a fool to ever discount their work or their commitment to their craft. Sure, at times all of us fall trap to Venus vs. Mars and find a thing about the opposite sex that befuddles us. Many times Men and Women do see priorities differently but a Artist is a Artist Man or Women.
And in the end we all face the same problems and joys in Art and life. So here is to all the women Artists out there don't let anyone or anything hold you back.
PS just so my guy friends don't think I've turned completely soft I still find myself enjoying the view much more painting with women then men. I may be a more sensitive man but I am still a Man after all