The Holy Experiment: Violet Oakley Mural Studies Exhibit

The Holy Experiment: Violet Oakley (1874-1961) Mural Studies, will be on display at Pennsbury Manor, from June 27, 2014 through the end of the year. The exhibit features thirteen original oil on canvas studies for murals, commissioned in 1902 to decorate the Governor’s Reception room located in the Pennsylvania Capitol Building. At that time it was the largest commission given to a woman artist in the country.  After she was invited to paint these murals, Oakley traveled to Italy in an effort to see firsthand the colors and effects of Italian Master Artists.  She also studied in England to research William Penn’s life and influences. Each mural, according to Oakley, depicts events that influenced Quaker ideology, The study series centers on the founding of the Colony as a testament to the life and vision embraced by William Penn.  The ideals of religious tolerance and individual liberty permeate the series.  The murals were unveiled in 1906, and continue to impress a wide audience of visitors to the Capitol of the Commonwealth.