Chicago Tribune c. 1920s

Rose Crosman created this etching titled "Chicago Tribune" in the early 20th century. Crosman was a female artist working in a period where women were gaining more access to artistic training, yet still faced significant barriers in the art world. The etching portrays the Chicago Tribune building, a symbol of media power and architectural ambition in a rapidly modernizing city. By focusing on the building's ornate doorway, Crosman invites us to consider the thresholds we cross, both literally and metaphorically. Are we entering a space of information and knowledge, or are we being kept at a distance by the institution's imposing façade? This work provides a nuanced commentary on urban life and the role of media in shaping public perception and civic identity. It reflects a moment of cultural transition, where women artists were beginning to claim their space in the visual narrative of American society. The artwork is a reflection of personal experiences, yet resonates with broader themes of social change and cultural identity.