Ruth Asawa (1926-2013) was born in California and interred at the Rohwer War Relocation Center in Arkansas during World War II. Her story is filled with resiliency and grace. Here is her quote about her family’s internment:

“I hold no hostilities for what happened; I blame no one. Sometimes good comes through adversity. I would not be who I am today had it not been for the internment, and I like who I am.” 

Later she was denied a teaching credential because of her heritage. She said:

“I was told that it might be difficult for me, with the memories of the war still fresh, to work in a public school. My life might even be in danger. This was a godsend, because it encouraged me to follow my interest in art, and I subsequently enrolled at Black Mountain College in North Carolina.”

She continued to be in the life she was given through her art. Ruth Asawa is best known for her looped wire sculptures inspired by the basket crocheting she saw on a trip to Mexico. She was also a sculptor and made prints at the Tamarind Institute, a lithography workshop. Ruth Asawa was the driving force behind the creation of the San Francisco School of the Arts, a public alternative high school that now bears her name. Her wire sculptures were featured by the United States Postal Service with a stamp series in 2020.

Her art is displayed in prestigious collections and museums and in public places across the country. And did I mention she had six children!

Ruth Asawa believed in art, was inspired by nature, and moved around each “no” she received to find her way, exploring possibilities, making interesting things.

Her print, Spring, is an interesting take on a season that seems to explode and splatter in many greens. This print might also capture what this season can mean to a busy family trying to navigate all their opportunities and obligations. It could almost be seen as a map, a bird’s eye view, of what can be both exciting and binding.

Ruth Asawa stepped out of the culture in many ways, always believing in art. She pushed through many walls. She went around others.

We give thanks for her spirit and grit, her art making and service, her honesty and blameless perspective. May our days be inspired by Ruth Asawa. Thanks be to God.

In gratitude, faith and hope,