Signal Hill c. 1930

"Signal Hill" is a 1930 etching by American artist Margaret Lowengrund. The image depicts a row of oil derricks rising into the sky, with a winding road leading the viewer's eye through the scene. The etching's stark lines and strong contrasts highlight the industrial nature of the landscape, while the solitary figures walking along the road provide a sense of scale. Lowengrund's work often focused on the changing American landscape, and this piece, with its focus on oil extraction, reflects the growing importance of this industry in the early 20th century. The image is a compelling visual testament to the impact of industry on the environment.