All photos © Estate of Dare Wright/Courtesy Fred Torres Collaborations
The peculiar, haunting photos Dare Wright created to illustrate her 1957 children’s book, The Lonely Doll, have attracted fans such as photographers Cindy Sherman, Laurie Simmons and David LaChapelle. Wright created an entire world and narrative around her doll, who is befriended by two stuffed bears. The story of Edith, who “lived in a nice house and had everything she needed except somebody to play with” echoes Wright’s own sometimes isolated childhood. More than 30 images Wright created for the book are now on view at Fred Torres Collaborations in New York through April 28.
Photo above: “‘I hate rain,’ Edith grumbled crossly. ‘Why couldn’t Mr. Bear take us with him? There’s nothing for us to play indoors.’ ‘We’ll find something,’ said Little Bear. ‘Come on, let’s explore the house.'”
Dare Wright, the daughter of portrait artist Edith Stevenson Wright (yes: her mother and her doll shared the same name), was born in Ontario, raised in Cleveland and moved to New York City in her 20s. She authored 21 books, all featuring her black-and-white photos. She died in 2001. More information on her life and critical appraisal of her books can be the artist’s page on the Fred Torres web site.
“Little Bear was right. They did have fun!”
“Went too far alone.”
These photos were so compelling I had to google this woman. I would call her life sad – but her photos are wonderful. If I had read her books to my daughter we’d have both ended up crying.
These photos are wonderful, particularly the one of the bridge. I read The Lonely Doll books as a child and loved them (still have them today). Recently read Dare Wright’s Biography and saddened by her story. It brought a new light to her books. So glad to see her work is being given recognition.
Terrific