Elsa Voelcker

Elsa Voelcker is a Lecturer in Fine Arts Education at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, and Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, New Hampshire. She has taught photography for three decades, emphasizing both traditional silver photography and digital methods. Her research and artistic practice focus on portraiture, documentary work, and the intersection of art with identity expression.

Elsa holds an M.F.A. in Visual Studies from the Visual Studies Workshop (SUNY Buffalo) with a minor in the history of photography, and a B.A. in Art History from Boston University. She has also studied at the Museum of Fine Arts School in Boston and the Visual Studies Workshop in Rochester, New York.

Her artistic interests include creating portraits that explore identity, nature photography, and the production of artist books. Notable works include A Heritage, a photo-book about her grandfather, and the Piercing Images series examining body modifications. She self-published A Heritage and continues to produce unique books using hand-made techniques.

Elsa's exhibitions highlight her dedication to both solo and group shows. Recent highlights include a 2021 solo exhibition at Franklin Pierce University titled A Life’s Work, and a 2020 juried exhibition at Jaffrey Civic Center where she received an Honorable Mention. Her work is included in prestigious collections such as the Currier Art Museum, International Center for Photography, and George Eastman House.

In 2004, she received a research grant to photograph individuals with piercings, leading to a 36-image exhibition and a 2010 artist talk. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes creative exploration, blending technical skills with artistic expression. She runs a website (www.elsaphoto.com) showcasing her photography for sale and maintains active involvement in the New Hampshire arts community.