“What is the true cost of copper?” she asked. President of the Women’s Auxiliary No. 15 in the Western Federation of Miners, Big Annie used her voice and stature as an advocate for miner’s rights and working conditions through the Copper Strike of 1913-1914. Standing at 6’2”, Big Annie asked a small question with such a large answer because the cost had little to do with money when compared to the value of human life.
Big Annie transitioned herself into existence through a series of rough drafts that even included a complete redux on her copper plate to perfect the portrait of this American Joan of Arc. Framed in an antique gold frame with a flower motif a tribute to her bold bravery and reminiscent of the miner chant "bread and roses".
This "An American Joan of Arc" portrait of Big Annie is currently on display and available for purchase at the Gallery on 5th in Calumet, Michigan. She is there waiting for a permanent home.