Phillips, Ammi, (1788-1865)

Scope and Contents From the Record Group: The records include material related to the exhibitions that were on display between 1966 and 1977. Material comes from both curatorial and registration departments, as well as from all departments that contribute to creating an exhibition. Material includes checklists in both final and draft form, object and installation photography, printed matter including catalogs and invitations, publicity and press releases, correspondence, and more. The majority of the exhibitions were presented at...

Abstract

After purchasing an Ammi Phillips painting in 1958, the Holdridges began their extensive research into the artist’s life and work. Their research identified more than three hundred portraits done by Phillips and proved the theory that A. Phillips, the Border Limner, and the Kent Limner were all one artist, Ammi Phillips. The collection includes correspondence, photographs, and research notes related to the Holdridges' Ammi Phillips research.

Scope and Contents

In this interview, art historian Barbara Holdridge discusses her journey unearthing and identifying the itinerant portrait painter Ammi Phillips. Holdridge shares the discovery process of connecting the “clues” of Phillips’s signature style, which include ham hands, swirling skirts and hook noses. She also discusses her friendship and collaboration with Mary Black (historian and former Curator at the American Folk Art Museum) in her process of legitimizing Phillips’s artwork.