Wall Paper 1935 - 1942

Helen Hobart created this wallpaper design, simply titled "Wall Paper," sometime within her long life stretching from 1855 to 1995. The floral motif, rendered in muted blues, whites, and blacks, speaks to the rise of domestic design as a significant artistic outlet, particularly for women. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, movements like the Arts and Crafts movement elevated crafts and design, positioning them as integral to a holistic living environment. Examining publications from the period—home decorating magazines, design manifestos, and even personal letters—reveals a growing emphasis on the aesthetic qualities of the home as a reflection of personal taste and social standing. Hobart's design, with its repeating pattern and delicate floral elements, likely catered to a middle-class desire for accessible beauty. Understanding the social and economic context of this wallpaper helps us appreciate its significance beyond mere decoration. It becomes a window into the values, aspirations, and gendered roles of a specific historical moment.