Hazel Hyde

Hazel Hyde was an American artist whose documented activity spans the years 1935 through 1939. Her work is primarily associated with the systematic documentation of historical American crafts and decorative arts, contributing at least ten recorded items to the Index of American Design, a major Federal Art Project initiative.

Hyde specialized in detailed, measured drawings and renderings of vernacular artifacts. Five of her prints are represented in collections, demonstrating an interest in nautical carvings and folk design. These works include the precise documentation of Billethead, Billethead from Ship "Favorite", and the sculptural detail of Figurehead: Indian. Her catalog also features renderings of common functional objects, such as the Bowling Weather Vane and Butterfly Weather Vane.

The quality and historical importance of her renderings are verified by their inclusion in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art. Today, the preservation of these materials means that many Hazel Hyde prints, recognized for their museum-quality detail, are accessible as downloadable artwork, contributing significantly to the visual record of historic American design preserved in the public domain.