Since we were going to be in Austin for the Total Solar Eclipse, may as well get to the exhibit of Ruth Asawa drawings at the Menil Collection. OK, that's in Houston, which is a bit of a drive, but after getting from California to Texas what was a couple/few hundred more miles? Plus, I have a cousin in Houston that we could get together with, so it would be a twofer!
The Menil Collection is in a pleasant, residential feeling neighborhood. The Campus consists of a half dozen buildings scattered over several square blocks. The parklike grounds also include outdoor sculptures.
The Asawa exhibit was in the Drawing Institute, which was established in 2008. The dedicated building for the Drawing Institute opened in 2018.
I really enjoy seeing drawings, particularly sketches or, as in this case, when they are not the media for which the artist is primarily known. Somehow drawings seem more immediate, closer to the artist's hand (literally and figuratively), and a glimpse into their process, especially sketches.
I've gotten to see, and love, Asawa's woven wire sculptures, so I was super excited to get to see drawings. And the exhibit did not disappoint. Although there were a few pieces that I sort of wondered what Asawa would think about them being on display. I don't know that (exhibition) is the reason she did them. Regardless, it was such a treat to get to see them in person.
Advances in photography and printing technology allow for better and better reproductions, but it's never quite the same as the real thing. Even with listed dimensions, I don't get the same sense of size/scale as seeing the work in real life. There are also subtleties of color and texture that even the best reproduction never quite catches.
It was fun to see the variety of subjects and approaches. I particularly enjoyed the drawings of plants and flowers. There were also some geometric pieces created with rubber stamps!! And potato prints!!! And other geometric/pattern pieces that suggested weaving and/or seemed related to her sculpture work.
(Un)Fortunately, the Menil has a No Photography policy in the galleries. Which I totally appreciate for a more contemplative experience and being present with the artwork. But I do miss having images to jog my memory of works that particularly grabbed me, and for posting.
For images, check out the Menil’s exhibit page, or video below. Exhibit also previously at the Whitney. There’s also a lovely catalog. Exhibit dates: March 22 – July 21, 2024
I really enjoyed the description of this exhibition, and seeing the video