Homeward Bound c. 1940

Mina Pulsifer created this lithograph, "Homeward Bound," sometime in the mid-20th century. It depicts a rain-swept cityscape with silhouetted figures huddled under umbrellas. Pulsifer was born in America during a period of rapid industrialization and urbanization. We can understand the image as a reflection of the artist's lived experience. Lithography was a popular medium among artists interested in portraying everyday life and social themes, it allowed for relatively quick and inexpensive reproduction. The visual language of the image, with its stark contrasts and dramatic perspective, evokes a sense of both grandeur and alienation typical of the modern city. To truly understand this work, we might consider the cultural context of the time and consult urban planning archives. How did the rapid growth of cities like New York impact the lives of ordinary people? To what extent did artists respond to the social and environmental challenges of urbanization? By exploring these questions, we gain a deeper appreciation for the role of art in reflecting and shaping the urban experience.