The early to mid-twentieth century, an era marked by political upheaval, social unrest, and radical artistic movements, saw the rise of a generation of women writers and artists who defied societal norms. As a consequence of their exile and movement across borders, they engaged in cultural exchange, which significantly influenced their work. This chapter introduces our selection of twelve women whose border crossings spanned Anglo- and Hispanic spaces, connecting Europe and the Americas, including the Caribbean. These women’s artistic endeavors, shaped by displacement and uncertainty, reflect themes of mobility, versatility, hybridity, and intellectual restlessness. They sought opportunities for creative expression, often fleeing political unrest and seeking safety and freedom elsewhere. The twelve women featured formed part of a diaspora, often living in transit across national and other boundaries, and experiencing exile and displacement. Our book explores their work across various fields, from literature and the visual arts to photography and film. We argue that these ‘nomadic New Women’ exemplified independence, professional dedication, and political activism. Our volume highlights their significant contributions, such as María Zambrano’s philosophical work, Gertrude Stein’s experimental writing, and Maruja Mallo’s and Leonora Carrington’s innovative painting. These women embodied the idea that the personal is political, predating second-wave feminism. Our book maps their movements across the Atlantic, influenced by events like World War I, the Mexican Revolution, the Spanish Civil War, and World War II, illustrating how their cross-border exchanges enriched the artistic and literary scenes on both sides of the Atlantic.
