The Library Art Room, 1926

What is this?

Author, filmmaker, and photographer Anita Rosenberg takes audiences on an unexpected journey that began with a chance discovery in Columbia University's Rare Book & Manuscript Library—a forgotten collection of hundreds of original drawings by her great-uncle, Cincinnati Post artist Manuel Rosenberg. That discovery led to a decade-long adventure through archives, newspapers, photographs, and historic sites, ultimately recreating Manuel's remarkable 1926 Cincinnati Public Library exhibition, Drawings By Celebrities. Along the way, you'll meet the movie stars, authors, opera singers, politicians, explorers, and cultural icons who crossed his path during the Roaring Twenties. Featuring rare artwork, historic news clippings, and stories from Anita's newly completed three-volume archive, this richly illustrated presentation brings a lost exhibition—and an extraordinary Cincinnati artist—back to life. As part of this special event, Anita will formally donate her newly completed three-volume archival collection, Uncle Manuel & Me, to the Cincinnati Public Library. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the collection and share in this milestone as Manuel Rosenberg's remarkable legacy returns to the city where his career began.