Helen Pierce

Dr. Helen Pierce is a Senior Lecturer in Art History at the University of Aberdeen, affiliated with the School of Divinity, History, Philosophy & Art History. She holds a PhD in History of Art from the University of York and has held research fellowships at institutions such as the Paul Mellon Centre and the Huntington Library. Her work focuses on British art of the early modern period (c.1550–1750), particularly graphic satire, print culture, and the York Virtuosi group.

Education: BA (Hons) in English and History of Art, MA and PhD in History of Art from the University of York. Professional roles include Student Engagement and Employability Lead for the School and co-ordinator of undergraduate programs in Art History.

Research: Investigates printed images as propaganda, satirical prints, and the activities of the York Virtuosi. Current projects include a history of British political caricature and studies of Francis Place’s artistic networks. Key publications include Unseemly Pictures: Graphic Satire and Politics in Early Modern England (2008) and recent articles on Francis Place’s travels and satirical prints.

Publications: Over 20 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, including contributions to Print Quarterly, British Art Studies, and Huntington Library Quarterly. Her work frequently intersects with interdisciplinary collaborations, such as co-curating the exhibition Striking Impressions (2024).

Awards: Fellowships from the Paul Mellon Centre, Huntington Library, and Folger Shakespeare Library. Recognitions include Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2014–) and Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland (2020–).

Teaching: Leads courses like Introduction to Art History and Scottish Visual History, emphasizing early modern British art and material culture.