Discussing the controversy surrounding Vinnie Ream, the first woman to receive a federal art commission in the US government at a young age. Covering debates in Congress, accusations of charm usage, and public scrutiny. Exploring her relationships with powerful men, challenges she faced, and controversies surrounding her work on a statue of Lincoln.
Vinnie Ream was the first woman to receive a federal art commission, facing skepticism and controversy in her pursuit.
Ream's determination and talent propelled her into the spotlight, overcoming challenges and completing iconic sculptures.
Deep dives
Vinnie Ream: Early Life and Rise to Fame
Lavania Ellen Ream, born in 1847 in Wisconsin, demonstrated an early interest in the arts despite her family's humble background. She ventured into sculpting and caught the attention of Missouri Representative James S. Rollins, leading to an apprenticeship with sculptor Clark Mills. Ream's skill and determination led to her sculpting President Abraham Lincoln, which propelled her into the spotlight and garnered numerous commissions from Washington's elite.
Congressional Debate and Commission Controversy
When Congress debated Ream's commission to create a statue of Lincoln, she faced backlash from critics like Senator Charles Sumner, who doubted her abilities. Despite skepticism, the bill passed, making Ream the first woman to receive a federal art commission. However, public opinion and press scrutiny followed, with accusations of her using charm to gain support, intensifying the controversy.
Mary Todd Lincoln's Opposition and Studio Charms
Mary Todd Lincoln's opposition to Ream's project added another layer of drama as she expressed doubts about Ream's capabilities, leading to a conflict over the use of Lincoln's suit for modeling. As Ream continued her work, her studio in the Capitol became a popular attraction, drawing diverse visitors and positive attention amidst ongoing controversies and challenges.
Model Controversy and Completion of the Lincoln Statue
As Ream's statue model faced criticism for its composition, she clarified the process and defended her work against allegations of deception, asserting the authenticity of her creations. Despite funding delays and Senate debates over her payment, the completion of the Lincoln statue in 1869 marked a significant milestone, solidifying Ream's place in the art world despite ongoing public scrutiny.
Vinnie Ream became the first woman to be given an art commission by the U.S. Government when she was still a teenager. Part one covers the controversy that arose as she lobbied for that job.
Research:
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