'artistess' originates from English formation by adding the feminine suffix '-ess' (from Old French '-esse', ultimately from Latin '-issa') to the word 'artist'.

'artist' was borrowed into English from French 'artiste' (and from Italian 'artista'), which ultimately traces to Latin 'ars'/'art-' meaning 'skill' or 'craft'; the feminine form 'artistess' was later formed in English by affixation but has become rare.

Initially, it meant 'a female artist' (used to mark the woman's gender); over time it became viewed as dated or unnecessary as 'artist' is used for any gender.