CVA Lecture on Sunday, January 25, 2026, 3:00 pm, at the PE/Farmville Barbara Johns Public Library

Elizabeth Cruickshanks

The Bold and the Beautiful: A Survey of the Neoclassic and Romantic Movements 18th- and 19th-century Europe were captivated by two competing artistic movements: Neoclassicism and Romanticism. Neoclassic art inspired by the ancient world was undeniably en vogue for the majority of the 18th century, dominating every salon and private home throughout Europe. At the close of the century, Neoclassicism was met with a reactionary artistic movement: Romanticism. With shocking imagery and an emotionality previously unexamined, Romanticism was the polar opposite of Neoclassicism.

Join Elizabeth Cruickshanks as she examines these two artistic movements and the fascinating hold they had on the European public.