E.O. Hoppé: Women | Portraits of Achievement in Art, Science, Literature, and Politics

This powerful exhibition explores Emil Otto Hoppé’s contribution to the recognition of accomplished women of the early twentieth century, and cements his status as a leading portrait photographer of the age. At a time of women’s suffrage and sweeping change in the roles and social expectations of women, Hoppe’s approach to photographing women was revolutionary. He was a key ally in the celebration of women of achievement, photographing many pioneering figures in art, literature, science, sport, screen and stage.

Bold in their approach, Hoppé’s portraits of women reveal an inherent understanding of his sitter’s personalities and energy. Rather than merely flatter his subjects, he aimed to be true to their character. His portraits feature figures recognized for their pathfinding and frequently difficult work, including Sylvia Pankhurst, Vita Sackville-West, Ellen Terry, Margot Fonteyn and many others. His photographs commemorate these women’s achievements and their active participation in, and contribution to, modern society.

E.O. Hoppé: Women | Portraits ofAchievement in Art, Science, Literature, and Politics was
organized in collaboration with the E.O. Hoppe Estate Collection and is toured by Curatorial
Exhibitions, Pasadena, California.