Film Screening: Paint Me a Road Out of Here
Tuesday, April 7, 2026 | 4:00 p.m.
Wolfensohn Hall

Artist Faith Ringgold was commissioned in 1971 to paint a mural for the women’s house on Rikers Island, the large island prison on the East River in New York City. She asked the inmates what they wanted for the mural and was told that they needed to "see a road out of there." Ringgold's work became a vision of empowerment and freedom for the women—but ironically itself became a prisoner.
 

The film follows the 50-year journey of this whitewashed masterpiece, "For the Women's House," from Rikers Island to the Brooklyn Museum. A heartbreaking, funny, and true parable for a world without mass incarceration, the film also highlights the story of Ringgold in the last months of her life and her relationship with fellow artist Mary Enoch Elizabeth Baxter, who was also commissioned to create artwork for the women on Rikers.

Assistive listening devices available on site. Please see a member of our staff should you wish to use one during the event.
 

Register below to attend.