Hella Hammid, a celebrated American photographer of international acclaim, was born Hella Hilde Heyman on July 15, 1921, marking the beginning of a life that would be filled with an unwavering passion for the art of photography.
Throughout her remarkable career, Hammid's talents were in high demand, as she effortlessly transitioned between teaching at the esteemed University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA),and contributing her exceptional photography skills to a diverse array of publications, including the revered Life, the trailblazing Ebony, the esteemed The Sun, and the esteemed The New York Times.
As she navigated the world of photography, Hammid's work was met with widespread acclaim, and her impressive portfolio, filled with captivating images, served as a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft.
Despite her untimely passing on May 1, 1992, Hammid's legacy lives on, and her remarkable contributions to the world of photography continue to inspire and influence generations of photographers to come.
The photograph in question, a masterfully crafted work of art, captures the carefree essence of two young Italian girls as they dance with abandon, their joyful movements watched with fascination by a group of other children gathered in front of the ancient stone abutments of a building. This poignant image, imbued with a sense of innocence and simplicity, was chosen by the renowned photographer Edward Steichen for his groundbreaking 1955 exhibition, "The Family of Man", which embarked on a world tour and was hosted by the prestigious Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). This remarkable exhibition, a milestone in the history of photography, was seen by an astonishing nine million visitors, a testament to its enduring impact and influence.
Noted filmmaker Hella Hammid's personal life took a significant turn in 1949, as she walked down the aisle with acclaimed director and cinematographer Alexander Hammid, who had recently divorced the celebrated filmmaker Maya Deren, whose birth name was Eleanora Derenkowsky, in 1948. Interestingly, Hammid, Deren, and Alexander Hammid had collaborated on several of Deren's films, including the critically acclaimed "At Land" (1944),"Ritual in Transfigured Time" (1946),and "Invocation: Maya Deren" (1987).
Hella Hammid's remarkable existence was marked by a profound impact on the realm of photography, as she skillfully wove together a tapestry of artistic expression, leaving behind a rich and enduring legacy that would continue to inspire and influence generations of photographers to come.
