Recording Artists

This episode focuses on Eva Hesse (1936–1970). Joining host Helen Molesworth are artist Mary Weatherford and art historian Darby English. Hesse is one of the most influential artists of her generation, despite having a career that lasted only ten years. In a rare 1970 recording, made only a few months before her death, Hesse discusses … Continue reading "Eva Hesse: Oh, More Absurdity"

This episode focuses on Yoko Ono (b. 1933). Joining host Helen Molesworth are artists Catherine Lord and Sanford Biggers. In an interview from 1990, Ono reflects on her influences, her years on the international avant-garde scene, and the impact of her marriage on the reception of her work. For transcripts, images, and additional resources visit … Continue reading "Yoko Ono: A Kind of Meeting Point"

This episode focuses on Helen Frankenthaler (1928–2011). Joining host Helen Molesworth are artist Rodney McMillian and art historian Alexander Nemerov. Frankenthaler made large abstract paintings by pouring thinned paint directly onto the horizontal canvas. In interviews from 1969 and 1971, she discusses the inspiration for this radical innovation as well as other early influences. For … Continue reading "Helen Frankenthaler: Let ‘er Rip"

This episode focuses on Betye Saar (b. 1926). Joining host Helen Molesworth are artist Linda Goode-Bryant and art historian Marci Kwon. Saar is the only California artist in this series, and her work has been deeply influenced by the region’s cultural landscape. In a 1975 interview, she discusses the diverse sources for her art and … Continue reading "Betye Saar: Working My Mojo"

This episode focuses on Lee Krasner (1908–1984). Joining host Helen Molesworth are artists Lari Pittman and Amy Sillman. In interviews from 1972, 1975, and 1978, the first-generation Abstract Expressionist discusses her formation as a painter, the progression of her work, her relationships with fellow artists, and her role as guardian of Jackson Pollock’s legacy. For … Continue reading "Lee Krasner: Deal with It"

This episode focuses on Alice Neel (1900–1984). Joining host Helen Molesworth are artists Simone Leigh and Moyra Davey. Neel is known for striking, expressionistic portraits of family, friends, lovers, and neighbors in Spanish Harlem. In interviews from 1971 and 1975, she discusses inequality, economic hardship, and her own mental health challenges. For transcripts, images, and … Continue reading "Alice Neel: Viva la Mujer"

Here’s a sneak peek of Recording Artists: Radical Women, a new podcast that explores the lives of six women artists—Alice Neel, Lee Krasner, Betye Saar, Helen Frankenthaler, Yoko Ono, and Eva Hesse—through archival interviews and discussions with contemporary artists and art historians. Hosted by Helen Molesworth, the podcast launches on November 12, 2019. Stay tuned!