Homer Virgil Hardwick is certain that his daughter, Loulie, has the makings of a great artist, so the Civil War veteran vows to give her the very best education he possibly can. At first reluctant to leave their idyllic home in Almon, Georgia, Loulie finds passion at college. Her teachers recognize her talent and challenge her to achieve ever-greater heights in painting. At the same time, the beautiful and brilliant Rose becomes Loulie's constant...