Final answer:
John Smith has been hired by the City of Virginia to paint public murals, as the context refers to artistic activities like painting murals and constructing city guides.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on the context provided, where it mentions activities such as construct city guides, paint murals, and perform in theater troops providing entertainment across the country, it seems that the question pertains to artistic endeavors.
The correct answer to the provided question 'John Smith has been hired by the City of Virginia ____________.' would be option B) To paint public murals. This choice is closely related to the arts and aligns with the activities mentioned in the context provided.