[2][7] Benedict made oil and watercolor portrait, figure, landscapes and urban scene paintings.

[2] In the 19th century a women's movement began to promote education, autonomy, and break into traditionally male dominated occupations.

[8] Benedict lived at Hull House, as did Jane Addams, and supported the Art School program for almost 50 years, teaching clay modeling, drawing, painting and lithography.

Benedict created opportunities for artists to exhibit their works, including the Art Institute of Chicago.

Reported in Pots of Promise: Mexicans and Pottery at Hull-House, 1920-40: "In proportion to enrollment, there probably have been more exhibiting artists who started in its classes than in most other schools in the country.

Benedict believed that art could improved the lives of Nineteenth Ward residents burdened by long work days and difficult conditions by providing beauty and offering opportunities for creative expression.