Molly H. Bodenstein

Molly H. Bodenstein was an artist whose documented professional activity occurred primarily between 1935 and 1939. Bodenstein’s output is strongly associated with the Index of American Design, a component of the Works Progress Administration’s Federal Art Project, which sought to create a comprehensive visual record of historical American decorative arts and folk objects.

As a contributing artist to the Index, Bodenstein produced accurate and detailed documentary renderings of utilitarian and ornamental objects. Ten works by Bodenstein are represented in institutional collections, typically illustrating three-dimensional folk art in two-dimensional form using media such as watercolor and graphite. These renderings serve as crucial historical records, preserving the visual details of traditional American craftsmanship.

The entirety of Bodenstein's known professional body of work is preserved in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art. The documented subjects reflect a focus on historical artifacts, including maritime objects like the Figurehead from "The Black Prince" and the "William Wirt" Figurehead, as well as domestic decorative pieces such as the Wall Ornament and Necklace and Locket. The historical significance of these renderings ensures that Molly H. Bodenstein prints and associated documentation remain available for research. Many of these museum-quality works are today within the public domain.