Cheryl Rossum – Life, Career, and Influence as an Artist and Mother
Cheryl Rossum – Life, Career, and Influence as an Artist and Mother
Cheryl Rossum is a celebrated fine art and corporate photographer whose work has been recognized internationally for its creativity, technical excellence, and artistic depth. She is perhaps most widely known as the mother of Emmy Rossum, the acclaimed actress and singer, but her own career is equally remarkable.
From working with corporate giants like Apple, Mobil Oil, and the New York Stock Exchange, to producing award-winning abstract and cityscape series, Cheryl has established herself as a significant figure in the photography world.
Her story is one of artistic dedication, single motherhood, and professional excellence—a combination that has made her an inspiring figure for both artists and working mothers.
Early Life & Education
Cheryl Rossum’s journey into the arts began early in life. She attended Barnard College, one of the most prestigious women’s colleges in the United States, where she cultivated her artistic eye and technical skills.
It was during these formative years that she developed a love for visual storytelling—a passion that would later define her career.
Rise as a Corporate Photographer
Before gaining prominence as a fine art photographer, Cheryl made her mark in the corporate photography sector. She worked with high-profile clients, producing visually compelling images for advertising, branding, and corporate communications.
Her clientele included:
- Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Apple
- Northrop
- Mobil Oil
- New York Stock Exchange
One of her most notable achievements came when the New York Times described her photographic series for EF Hutton as “museum quality”. This recognition underscored her ability to merge commercial needs with artistic vision.
Fine Art Photography & Signature Style
Cheryl’s work goes beyond commercial projects—her fine art photography has been celebrated for its abstract and surreal qualities. She often blends multiple images into large-scale compositions, creating visual mosaics that invite viewers to explore the relationship between space, structure, and perception.
Her art often:
- Utilizes light and shadow to create depth.
- Blends realism with abstraction.
- Challenges traditional perspectives of urban spaces.
Awards and Professional Recognition
Throughout her career, Cheryl has received multiple prestigious awards, including:
- Corporate Photographer of the Year (1987) – Awarded by ASMP at the Kennedy Center.
- Julia Margaret Cameron Competition –
- First Prize Fine Art (2016)
- First Prize Cityscapes (2020)
These honors solidified her reputation as a world-class photographer.
The “Plazas” Series – Abstract Urban Landscapes
One of Cheryl Rossum’s most recognized projects is her “Plazas” series. This body of work features large mosaic-style compositions constructed from dozens of aerial photographs. The results are abstract yet familiar, capturing the geometry and rhythm of urban spaces.
Key features:
- Can take up to a year to complete each piece.
- Combines architecture, public spaces, and abstract form.
- Blends photography with a painterly approach.
Other Artistic Works and Projects
Beyond Plazas, Cheryl has produced:
- Ocean Abstracts – Capturing the movement and mood of water.
- Industrial Landscapes – Exploring machinery, factories, and urban decay.
- Still Life Compositions – Minimalist studies of everyday objects.
Personal Life – Motherhood and Emmy Rossum
Cheryl raised her daughter, Emmy Rossum, as a single mother in New York City. Emmy, now a celebrated actress and singer, has often credited her mother for her independence, creativity, and discipline.
The two share a close relationship, frequently seen together at public events.
Emmy’s father was largely absent from her life, reportedly meeting her only twice by 2007. Cheryl played both parental roles, balancing a demanding photography career with raising a child.
Influence on Emmy Rossum’s Career
Cheryl’s artistic influence on Emmy cannot be overstated:
- Encouraged her to pursue creative expression.
- Introduced her to the arts from an early age.
- Supported her entry into acting and music.
Emmy has stated in interviews that her mother’s strength and creativity shaped her own professional ethos.
Exhibitions & Collaborations
Cheryl’s work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions, including:
- Corporate and private galleries.
- Special showcases for major art competitions.
- Public art installations highlighting urban landscapes.
She has also collaborated with designers, architects, and urban planners to incorporate photographic art into large-scale design projects.
Legacy and Continued Impact in Photography
Cheryl’s career demonstrates how artistic passion and professional discipline can coexist. She has influenced not only her daughter’s creative career but also inspired photographers to push the boundaries of corporate and fine art photography.
Her legacy lies in:
- Redefining corporate photography as a form of fine art.
- Elevating abstract cityscape photography to new creative heights.
- Serving as a role model for single mothers balancing family and career.
Conclusion – The Lasting Story of Cheryl Rossum
Cheryl Rossum’s journey from a Barnard College student to an award-winning photographer is an inspiring story of talent, resilience, and dedication. Her influence as a mother and artist extends beyond her own work, touching the lives of countless admirers and the career of her daughter, Emmy Rossum.
Quick Facts & Biography
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cheryl Rossum |
| Profession | Fine Art & Corporate Photographer |
| Education | Barnard College |
| Notable Clients | Apple, Metropolitan Museum, Mobil Oil, NYSE |
| Signature Works | Plazas Series, Ocean Abstracts, Industrial Landscapes |
| Awards | ASMP Corporate Photographer of the Year (1987), Julia Margaret Cameron Competition (2016, 2020) |
| Family | Mother of Emmy Rossum |
| Artistic Style | Abstract, Surreal, Urban Landscapes |
Career Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1980s | Began corporate photography career |
| 1987 | Won ASMP Corporate Photographer of the Year |
| 2000s | Expanded fine art photography portfolio |
| 2016 | Won Julia Margaret Cameron Award – Fine Art |
| 2020 | Won Julia Margaret Cameron Award – Cityscapes |
| Present | Continues to work on fine art projects |
