Writing Against Masculinst Histories of Modern Architecture: Ethel Power and Eleanor Raymond versus the Museum of Modern Art

A lecture by Prof Kathleen James-Chakraborty (UCD) for the Department of History of Art and Architecture Research Seminar (TCD).

Historians of modern architecture have largely accepted Philip Johnson and Henry-Russell Hitchcock’s claims of having introduced the International Style to audiences in the United States through an exhibition held at the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 1932. In fact, a number of women, including most notably Ethel Power and Catherine Bauer, shared responsibility for this achievement. Moreover, Power’s partner Eleanor Raymond had already designed an International Style house for her sister Rachel in Belmont, Massachusetts, which the two young men declined to include in their exhibit. Understanding what has been excluded from canonical histories and why provides a first step towards writing more inclusive histories.

Join us on 2 April 2026 (Calendar Week 32), 5pm, Long Room Hub, TCD, All welcome.

This event is run in accordance with Trinity’s Dignity and Respect policy, and its commitment to nurturing a respectful and inclusive research culture.
Please indicate if you have any access requirements, such as ISL/English interpreting, so that we can facilitate you in attending this event. Contact: BETHOMAS@tcd.ie