One of the most iconic figures of the mid-20th century, groundbreaking Japanese-American artist Ruth Asawa led a colorful life of artistic creation, advocacy, and civic engagement. More than a decade after her death, last year saw a wave of important exhibitions for Asawa, with her first solo show in Greater China at David Zwirner, followed by two major exhibitions. Ruth Asawa: A Retrospective.
In a tale of two MoMAs, this major exhibition recently departs from its origins in San Francisco, where the artist developed a deep, lifelong connection to the city. It now arrives in New York City, marking the largest exhibition of female artists in the museum’s history.
The vast collection spans 16,000 square feet and features more than 300 Asawa’s artworks, documenting the artist’s six-decade career. You can view her groundbreaking wire sculptures, intimate paintings, drawings, and prints up close, as well as bronze casts and monumental public works.
Ruth Asawa: A Retrospective Opening at the Museum of Modern Art on October 19, the exhibition will run until February 7, 2026. Explore more of Asawa on Colossal and gain further insight into her practice through her legacy website.
