Carlyle Schmollinger and Dr. James Swensen, Art History & Curatorial Studies

For various reasons, Helen Post has largely been ignored in art history, yet her contributions to photography are significant, particularly during the 1930’s and 40’s. In her work she beautifully combined the emotional gravity of typically candid poses with an attention to design reminiscent of fine art. Her passionate commitment to photographing individuals typically passed over by most can engender confidence in any artist—or person for that matter. It is time Post received her due recognition.

The aim of this project was to bring to light the work of neglected photographer, Helen Post. I first gathered any publications regarding her work, including her sister’s memoir. Marion Post Wolcott, Post’s younger sister, was also a photographer during the Depression-era and has received considerably more attention than her sibling. I also contacted Post’s son with the hopes of visiting him and learning more of Post’s photographic record. Due to conflicting travel plans we were unable to meet in person, however, he sent me a number of intriguing documents.

Included were old newspaper articles as well as large photocopied prints. I then traveled to the Amon Carter Museum in Fort Worth, Texas where I was able to further my research of the photographer. Though the collection of her work at the museum is relatively small, it is comprehensive, and spending the day in the library was a pleasure. I had the chance to pour over handwritten notes, radio interviews, and other personal journal entries. The Amon Carter has also digitized nearly all of Post’s images, making her work so much more accessible to not only me, but to the public as well.

Since traveling to Fort Worth and conversing with Post’s son, I have developed a thesis on the photographer, which I have incorporated into a research paper. I sent my completed paper to a small arts publication and would hope to see it included in a future issue. Also, I am continually searching for academic conferences at which I might be able to present my findings.

As I engage in my studies, I find myself actively searching for the truth—in life and in art. My love of learning increases with every new opportunity to uncover the truth, which characterizes my project to document the life and work of Helen Post. Her work has the power to uplift and educate, and I hope to be able to share that with others. That she has been forgotten in art history is a travesty—her images are descriptive yet intimate. They are personable and purposeful. Art historians, traditionally, focus only on a few photographers from that era: Dorothea Lange, Laura Gilpin, Ansel Adams. Researching and gathering information on Post has expanded my appreciation for this unknown photographer tenfold. Her vision is unique and her talent unmistakable. She deserves to be known and I hope to help in making her so