Housetops 1918

Mildred McMillen made this woodcut print, "Housetops," sometime in the early 20th century. It depicts a dense neighborhood scene of houses, stairs, and laundry. The stark contrast of black and white creates a bold and graphic composition. What can we say about the social conditions that shaped this scene? The image suggests a working-class neighborhood. The close proximity of the houses, the laundry hanging out to dry, and the figure climbing a ladder to make repairs all point to a community where people live in close quarters and must work hard to make ends meet. McMillen was associated with the Prairie Print Makers, a regionalist group that sought to promote art outside of the major urban centers. Their work reflects a desire to depict everyday life in America. Historical documents, such as census records and city directories, would provide additional information about the people and places depicted in this print. These sources can help us understand the social and economic context in which the artwork was created.