Louise Bourgeois' "Personages" from the 1940s to the 1950s stand as a significant body of work in the art world, mirroring the broader tumult and creativity of the era. During the 1940s, the world was reshaped by the violence and aftermath of World War II, leading to a surge in artistic experimentation and expression. The Museum of Modern Art's exhibition, "Art of the Forties," highlighted this period's profound impact on art, featuring works that span painting, sculpture, drawings, and more. Louise Bourgeois was one of the approximately 200 artists whose work was featured, showcasing her contribution to the rich tapestry of art movements during this time​ (The Museum of Modern Art)​.

The 1940s and 1950s were a time of great transition and experimentation in American art. Post-Minimalism, for instance, emerged as a significant trend, blending minimalist concepts with more organic, emotional expressions. Louise Bourgeois was a notable figure within this movement, using soft or pliable materials to create expressive works that diverged from the cool, anonymous approach of Minimalism. Her involvement with Post-Minimalism is emblematic of her broader impact on the art world, as she and other artists like Eva Hesse and Bruce Nauman explored new materials and forms, contributing to the evolution of contemporary art​ (The Art Story)​.

Louise Bourgeois' "Personages" are particularly notable for their exploration of form and material, standing as totems or sentinels that reflect her personal history and inner emotions. Through these works, Bourgeois engaged with themes of memory, trauma, and recovery, making her contributions during this period critical to understanding the trajectory of modern art. Her ability to navigate between different artistic movements, while maintaining a unique voice, underscores her importance as an artist during the mid-20th century.