Study for the figure of The Genius of Pennsylvania in ‘The Apotheosis of Pennsylvania,’ mural for the state capitol building in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 1902-1911 

Editor: This is a study in oil paint by Edwin Austin Abbey, for a mural titled ‘The Apotheosis of Pennsylvania.’ It feels very classical in its depiction of the human form, and almost unfinished in its painterly quality. I wonder what was going through Abbey's mind regarding his historical context? Curator: It's a fascinating piece, especially considering the cultural and political context of early 20th century America. How do you see this “classical” element functioning within the larger project of representing Pennsylvania? Do you find it empowering, perhaps alluding to the ideals of democracy, or something else? Editor: Well, the "Genius of Pennsylvania," which is interesting casting of place as "genius," certainly looks like a goddess, which I think gives Pennsylvania this aspirational identity… like it has something divine within it? Curator: Exactly! And here’s where the institutional aspect becomes clear. Public art in state capitols at the turn of the century frequently adopted classical imagery to legitimize the state’s power, associating it with the grandeur of past empires and ideas. The “Genius” becomes a symbolic representation of not only Pennsylvania's identity, but also the power structures it upholds. The visual language employed aims to elicit specific emotions and reinforce ideological frameworks. Who do you imagine saw the completed Apotheosis of Pennsylvania? Editor: Oh, it would have been the people visiting the capitol building! So everyday citizens interacting with the seat of power… seeing that power cast as essentially a deity… Curator: Precisely. The artist, and more importantly those commissioning the work, carefully considered who their audience would be, what messages they should receive, and how the very space of the capitol building could reinforce a specific understanding of Pennsylvania and its place within the Union. The image does the work of creating public perception! Editor: That gives me a lot to consider, both about how art is framed but how we perceive it as part of society! Curator: Indeed. Art like this makes us look at how power, institutions, and artistry all intertwine to shape collective identities and understandings of history and place. It reveals so much!