Mary H Steenson

Art Alone Enduring Mary H Steenson

Defying stereotyped female roles, two sisters, born in the brand new state of North Dakota, pursued careers as artists on their own terms as independent women. They participated in the Twentieth Century's upheavals and progress, struggling through the Depression, serving their country during World War II, one as a Sergeant in the Marine Corps; the other as a Rosie the Riveter. After the war, they moved to the west coast where they studied art and became part of the burgeoning mid-century Los Angeles art scene. A large oil painting, The Cosmonauts by Zora Steenson is testimony to her and her sister's remarkable life spans, from a sod house on the Great Plains to the space age.

A few romances threatened to divide them, but their commitment was to one another. Ultimately, over ninety years of age, they shared a room in the Medicaid Ward of a long-term care facility.

This story is supported by family documents and the impressive collection of Zora and Hughberta Steenson's art work. Actual incidents in the lives of these women as well as anecdotes shared by certain family members have been embellished by the author for the sake of a good story. However, all incidental details are historically appropriate; their voices spot on, easily recollected and replicated from years of sharing their company.

Over fifty examples of the art of Zora and Hughberta Steenson are included in full color.