Simplicity forms the most powerful meanings – Ruth Asawa: Citizen of the Universe at Modern Art Oxford
Read a review of our exhibition Ruth Asawa: Citizen of the Universe written by young artist May, who took part in this year’s City as Studio film-making residency for ages 16-19.
Words by May
Ruth Asawa created beautifully complex meanings through her incredibly simplistic imagery. Citizen of the Universe delves into deep ideas about the human condition and the modern world’s relationship with nature, as well as the importance of community. The exhibition has created this through displaying her works on the stripped down white walls of the spacious rooms in Modern Art Oxford, with the shadows emphasising the simplistic shape of her structures.
Ruth Asawa: Citizen of the Universe, installation view at Modern Art Oxford, 2022. Photo by Ben Westoby. Artwork © 2021 Ruth Asawa Lanier, Inc. / ARS, NY and DACS, London. Courtesy David Zwirner
The structures resemble natural forms of nature and parts of the human anatomy; this draws attention to the basic needs of humans, our functioning bodies and the natural environment, suggesting we do not need the industrial luxuries of capitalism. This appreciation of a simple lifestyle could have stemmed from Asawa’s time in an internment camp during World War II, during which her freedom was taken away, encouraging an appreciation of the value of basic human needs.
In addition, the use of wire and basket-weaving techniques further enhances the imagery of simplicity, as her lack of excess and vibrant colours expresses this. Her ability to make beautiful, complex work from simple material can be seen in her using baker’s clay which only includes salt, flour and water, to create an amazing collaborative water fountain with her community. This is explored in the film that is showcased in the exhibition, and it explains the importance of art within a community, as well as being resourceful with the basic materials that are available.
Ruth Asawa: Citizen of the Universe, installation view at Modern Art Oxford, 2022. Photo by Ben Westoby. Artwork © 2021 Ruth Asawa Lanier, Inc. / ARS, NY and DACS, London. Courtesy David Zwirner
Her work brought to my mind the idea of humanity and nature being so intertwined, as the pieces reflect human anatomy, such as one sculpture reminds me of the respiratory system, but also the branches of a tree. The complex thoughts about humans being so strongly connected to nature, and at the same time the industrial material the sculptures are made out of, conquer thoughts of humanity destroying and industrialising the natural world. This presents how powerful the exhibition is, because although the sculptures are relatively simple at first glance, in the sense of their material and shape, they conjure up so many ideas to the viewer, causing them to think and leaving an imprint in their mind, encouraging appreciation for the simple things in life without excess. This is the beauty of Ruth Asawa.
Ruth Asawa: Citizen of the Universe is on display at Modern Art Oxford until 21 August 2022. Find out more.
City as Studio is a professional development project for young artists run by lead artist Kate Mahony. Working with individuals, schools and community organisations, the young artists produce original short art films in response to a curatorial brief. Workshops and week-long residencies develop skills in film-making and performance, and the professional presentation of creative works is encouraged by the gallery team. Find out more.