In 1974, a group of Boulder women artists and graduate students formed Front Range Women in the Visual Arts to address the lack of attention received from critics, academics, writers, museums and galleries.

This organization became an advocate for the recognition of — and study about — artists who happened to be women, in the region and in history. It began to make connections nationwide. Several out of state exhibitions were organized, as well as exchange programs and a month-long celebration: “Colorado Women in the Arts” in 1979, open to all female artists in the state. The month included more than 80 events.

“The Transit of Venus: Four Decades Front Range Women in the Visual Arts,” which runs Jan. 10 to Feb. 23 at Redline Gallery, celebrates the 40th anniversary of the group’s founding and features more than 60 works by 24 female artists who were part of the organization.

Included in the exhibit are Micaela Amateau Amato, Barbara Baer, Carol K. Brown, Marilyn Duke, Sally Elliott, Jaci Fisher, Margaretta Gilboy, Ann Isolde, June Julian, Virginia Johnson, Carol Kliger, Vidie Lange, Virginia Maitland, Fran Metzger, Georgia Pugh, Jalaliyyih Quinn, Celeste Rehm, Marcia Rehn, Helen Redman, Sue Robinson, Barbara Shark, Barbara Takenaga, Rebecca Van Buren and Betty Woodman. William Biety is curator.

This will be the first of a series of five shows at Redline in 2014, “She Crossed the Line,” featuring women artists. To follow: Chen Man: March 1-April 27; Senga Nengudi: June 6 to July 20; Harmony Hammond: Aug. 2 to Sept. 28; Judy Chicago: Oct. 10 to Nov. 30.

“Transit of Venus” opens Jan. 10 with a member’s reception from 6 to 7 p.m. and public reception 7 to 9. There will be a curatorial talk and special performance by 3rd Law Dance/Theater in honor of Front Range Women in the Arts at 6:45 and 7:45 p.m.