The Masterpiece critiques the arbitrary division between “fine art” and commercial illustration. Discuss this division as it manifests in the real world, drawing from both the novel and from examples where commercial art challenged the ideals of the fine art world.

Discuss how Levon Zakarian and Oliver Smith function as foils to one another. How does this contrast affect Clara on her journey?

Explore the function of Grand Central Terminal as a symbolic space. Compare it to other real-world landmarks that have been treated similarly to support the novel’s arguments for historical preservation.

The motif of hidden identities is central to both protagonists. Discuss other female artists whose experiences resonate with Clara’s. What disguises or personalities did they have to adopt to become acceptable to the art world? How did they challenge social expectations?

Using a feminist critical lens, analyze how institutional power, as embodied by male gatekeepers like Mr. Lorette and Felix Hornsby, works to control, devalue, and ultimately erase female artistic production. Does the novel ever provide an example of positive gatekeeping through this lens? Who represents it?

Trace the symbolism of the dual-sided watercolor. How do its physical qualities and the works they bear on each side elaborate the themes of the novel?

Analyze the connection between Virginia coming to terms with her own physical and emotional scars and her growing resolve to restore Clara Darden’s name and save Grand Central Terminal.

Comment on the evolution of Clara and Levon’s relationship to argue on the necessity of competition in creative spaces.