Polaroid's Artistic Side: The Story of Meroë Morse and Edwin H. Land

Polaroid, founded in 1937 in Cambridge, was a powerhouse of innovation. Its founder, Edwin Land, combined science, art, and technology, earning 535 patents from the US Patent Office. Harvard Business School's latest exhibition, "From Concept to Product," explores Polaroid's artistic side, focusing on Meroë Morse and her influence. Without formal business or science training, Morse quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a key figure in Polaroid's research department. The war years saw Polaroid working on projects for the Pentagon, but in 1947, Land introduced instant photography, shifting the company's focus to consumer products. Morse was integral to this transformation, especially in associating Polaroid with artistic aspirations. Her work also included liaising with renowned photographers like Ansel Adams, fostering a unique corporate culture that valued innovation and excellence regardless of gender. The exhibition showcases cameras, photographs, letters, and vintage magazines documenting this fascinating period in Polaroid's history. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the interplay of art and technology.