New art exhibitions that reflect the changing role of women will be celebrated at an opening reception at Lubeznik Center for the Arts in Michigan City, Ind. on Friday, April 15 from 6 to 8 p.m.

“Woman as Artist, Woman as Muse, Diamond Collection Posters of the Belle Epoque, 1890-1910” features rare, original art nouveau posters of the “beautiful era” — a period in Europe from the end of the 19th century to World War I.

An era of peace and prosperity, luxury items, popular music and theater grew in popularity among the middle class, while technological advances attracted some of the most talented artists in Europe to the emerging medium of lithography.

The women depicted in these posters serve a similar purpose to women pictured in modern advertising — the glamorous model is meant to draw attention to the object being sold. But a burgeoning feminist movement is also reflected in these posters, riding bicycles in the new divided skirts of the era, women demonstrate a new mobility and independence.

This growing freedom and achievement is also clear in the role of women as artists — obtaining commissions and producing acclaimed pieces, a number of which are included in the show.

An audio tour sponsored by Great Lakes Catering complements the exhibition and provides historical insights.

In Lubeznik Center’s Conference Room Gallery, vintage covers from Vogue magazine evoke the Roaring 20s with fashion illustration by masters of the Art Deco style, including Helen Dryden and Eduardo Benito, while contemporary fiber artist Tommy Fitzsimmons redefines the traditional craft of quilt making with her colorful art quilts in the center’s Brincka/Cross and Robert Saxton galleries.

All three exhibitions will run from April 16 through June 26.