Frank Volem

Frank Volem was an artist active between 1939 and 1942, focusing on the documentation of American industrial and utilitarian objects. The five documented works attributed to Volem are meticulous studies of specialized tools, characteristic of the comprehensive historical surveys undertaken during that era, likely relating to the Index of American Design. Volem’s output demonstrates a commitment to precise, museum-quality technical rendering rather than fine art painting, focusing on preserving the visual record of functional implements.

All five known designs are held in major institutional collections, specifically the National Gallery of Art. These important historical records include drawings of specialized equipment used in various industries, such as the agricultural tool Bristle Remover for Hogs and the maritime implement Grappling Hook. Other works represented in the NGA collection include the detailed rendering of Log Marker, the industrial apparatus Lead Miner's Screen, and the specialized forestry equipment Lumberman's Brailing Pin.

Although Frank Volem’s active period was brief, the preservation of these designs in the National Gallery of Art establishes their lasting historical relevance. As documentation created for public accessibility, these Frank Volem prints are frequently available as downloadable artwork, enabling wide access via the public domain.