Phillips, Ammi, (1788-1865)

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.

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.