KQED's Forum Forum From the Archives: SF MOMA Ruth Asawa Retrospective Celebrates Her Art and Life as Educator
Jul 7, 2025
Janet Bishop, the Thomas Weisel Family chief curator at SFMOMA, co-curated a retrospective of influential artist Ruth Asawa. Along with close friend Andrea Jepson, they explore Asawa's iconic wire sculptures and her profound impact on arts education. The discussion highlights how Asawa transformed everyday materials into extraordinary art and her commitment to nurturing creativity in schools. Personal anecdotes illustrate her legacy as both an artist and community advocate, emphasizing her lasting influence in the art world.
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Andrea Jepson's Connection
- Andrea Jepson was a close friend and model for Asawa's pregnant figure sculpture in Ghirardelli Square.
- She won a Tidewire sculpture via KQED auction and later sold it, associating it with personal memories.
Lasting Interracial Marriage
- Ruth and Albert Lanier's interracial marriage thrived for over 60 years despite legal barriers.
- Their devotion and mutual career support defined a long, happy partnership.
Community Art at SF Fountain
- The San Francisco Fountain, made with community ceramic figures, showcases Asawa's commitment to involving others.
- She used non-toxic baker's clay to engage hundreds in its creation, later bronze cast for permanence.
