EVENTS & MOVEMENTS
The Crystal Palace Exposition 1851
Held in London, England, the Crystal Palace Exposition displays art works, products, and inventions from around the world. At the exposition England discovers the poor quality of their methods of production and products. In order to compete with the rest of the world England initiates art and drawing programs.
The 1867 Paris Exposition
By 1867, England's products have improved dramatically and America comes to the realization that they are lagging behind. As a result, Charles Callahan Perkins and John Dudley Philbrick begin to formulate a plan for the introduction of industrial drawing into Boston schools.
Arts & Crafts Movement
In an act of defiance against the coldness of mechanical production that was occurring during the Industrial Revolution, British antagonists begin the Arts and Crafts Movement. Turning away from the use of machines, protagonists of the movement concentrate on creating well-crafted thoughtfully constructed objects by hand. This movement spreads to America, and the focus shifts from industry to furniture making, ceramics, china painting and needlework. Women are highly employed at this time and find great success working in furniture and ceramic production.
The Oswego Movement
In 1861, the Oswego Movement begins with the establishment of the Oswego Normal and Training school in New York. Here, Edward A. Sheldon spreads his theories of object training, a method that employs the use of tangible and visual objects such as charts and blocks, to engage the child's senses.
The American Kindergarten Movement
Inspired by Froebel's philosophies and teaching methods, Elizabeth Peabody is an influential force in the development of the kindergarten in America. The first public kindergarten opens in Boston, Massachusetts in 1870, where Froebel's "gifts" and "occupations" are employed.
The Boston Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in Boston opens to the public in 1876. The opening of museums in America prompts the beginning of public art education. Providing schooling for both men and women, these institutions are financially supported by upper class citizens.