Virtual Lecture Series: Speak Softly and Carry a Big Brush: Women and the Gilded Age Mural Movement

Dr. Bailey Van Hook, Professor Emerita of Art History at Virginia Tech

At the turn of the 20th century, when Teddy Roosevelt coined his famous maxim, “Speak Softly and Carry a Big Stick,” artists in the United States were using their big brushes to remake public spaces. While most of the subject matter represented women, the muralists were primarily male. Violet Oakley (1874-1961) accepted the challenge and became one of the most sought-after muralists of her day. In this lecture from March 31, 2022, Dr. Bailey Van Hook -- Professor Emerita of Art History at Virginia Tech -- examines the changing role of professional women artists during the Gilded Age.