Ms Stevens Visits Ms Paul Card

Julia Dzikiewicz MS STEVENS VISITS MS PAUL Encaustic 32”x50” 2010

One evening, as I read “Jailed for Freedom” by Doris Stevens, I came upon a nightmarish tale. For picketing the White House, Alice Paul was held at the District Prison, placed in solitary confinement, denied visitors, and tortured with daily force feedings. Her friend, Doris Stevens, desperately needed to talk with her to check on her condition and to “consult with (this suffrage leader) as to a matter of policy.” Doris Stevens braved a dark graveyard, angry guards, and the possibility of her own arrest in order to see Ms. Paul. This combination of bravery and fear inspired this new painting.