Barker, Sheila, and Sheila Barker. “The Universe of Giovanna Garzoni. Art, Mobility, and the Global Turn in the Geographical Imaginary.” Essay. In "The Immensity of the Universe" in the Art of Giovanna Garzoni, 16–29. Sillabe, 2020.

Sheila Barker’s essay, “The Universe of Giovanna Garzoni. Art, Mobility, and the Global Turn in the Geographical Imaginary” provides an examination of the influences that shaped Giovanna Garzoni’s life, career, and art. Barker argues that Garzoni’s work was greatly influenced by her ability to travel and have contact with foreign people, objects, and places. Barker describes Garzoni as a “universal artist” who was capable of working in varied media and creating artwork in many different genres. Furthermore, Barker suggests that Garzoni’s artwork showcases Garzoni’s inspiration from places around the world. Garzoni’s “universal” artistry and her interest in the world can be seen in Garzoni’s ability to combine the unfamiliar with the familiar and explore various geographic areas through her work. Throughout the essay, Barker discusses evidence including Garzoni’s notebooks, letters, and artworks. The essay includes several color images of Garzoni’s work and artworks by other artists from which she may have drawn inspiration. Overall, this essay provides significant scholarship on the topic of geographic influences on Giovanna Garzoni’s work.