Dorothea A. Farrington

Dorothea A. Farrington was an artist active during the critical period of 1935 through 1941. Farrington is primarily recognized for contributions to the Index of American Design (IAD), a historic Federal Art Project tasked with documenting the material culture and decorative arts of the United States. Farrington's output for the IAD consisted of documentary renderings, typically focusing on objects of utility and historical significance, capturing precise details necessary for preservation and historical study.

Nine index designs attributed to Farrington are represented in museum collections, confirming the artist’s involvement in the ambitious Depression-era documentation project. Among the specific objects documented are the Linen Press, Tavern Table or Stretcher, Yard Lantern, Chair, and Clock, Antique. These detailed records function as valuable resources for historians of American craftsmanship.

Today, Farrington’s work for the Index of American Design is permanently held within the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Because of their origin within a government project, these historically significant renderings often enter the public domain, allowing for the creation of high-quality prints for educational purposes. Documentation, including various Dorothea A. Farrington prints, preserves a valuable visual record of early American decorative traditions.