On November 4, 2023, Rasjad Hopkins, a multifaceted artist, father, and Subud Helper whose creative legacy endures, left this world. As a commemoration of the 100th day since my father’s passing, this tribute offers a concise overview of the diverse array of Rasjad’s artistic contributions as a sculptor, painter, publisher, and gallery director.
Sculptor
“Mt Rainier” Douglas Fir, 10′ x 10′, 1962, On loan from the Seattle Art Museum to the Pacific Science Center Seattle, by Rasjad Hopkins
Rasjad’s journey into the realm of sculpture began in the Pacific Northwest, where he honed his skills at the University of Washington. Armed with a BA and later an MFA in Fine Art, he crafted the iconic “Mt. Rainier.” Selected by the esteemed I.M. Pei for exhibition at the World’s Fair, the sculpture found its home at the Seattle Art Museum (currently on loan to the Pacific Science Center), a testament to Rasjad’s early mastery.
His sculptural repertoire embraced stoneware, marble, wood, and metal, blending abstract expressionism with elements of cubism. Rasjad’s unique approach employed angular lines to convey masculinity and graceful curves to articulate femininity, creating a harmonious dance between form and energy.
“Hound of Heaven” Modeled Stoneware with High Fire Cobalt Glaze, 1961, by Rasjad Hopkins
San Francisco
In the 1960s, Rasjad ventured to San Francisco, embarking on a new chapter alongside his artist wife. A shift to working in an art gallery marked the beginning of his successful career as an art dealer and publisher. Memories of that time include the intoxicating scent of soldering metal, modeling wax, linseed oil, and the ambiance of art studios filled with monumental sculptures and creative dust.
To learn more about Rasjad’s years as an Art Dealer, you can read My Galleries, by Rasjad Hopkins.
Later Years: Rasjad’s Paintings
In his later years, Rasjad’s focus shifted to painting and exploration. His canvases reveal a profound connection to nature, especially in the mountains and foothills of California and the vibrant landscapes of Brazil. Let’s delve into a few examples that encapsulate the essence of his travels:
- Gentle Waters of the Pantanal:
- Rasjad’s depiction captures the gentle evening waters of the Pantanal at dusk. The painting immerses us in the quiet symphony of water gently moving, inviting reflection and contemplation.
“Gentle Waters of the Pantanal” by Rasjad Hopkins
- Above The Valley in Marin:
- Positioned atop a hill, Rasjad’s portrayal invites us to experience the spring day ambiance. We can almost smell the golden grass and soil, hear the rustling of creatures in the chapparal, and witness the view from the lone conifer, followed by oaks, to the water-laden valley below.
“Above The Valley in Marin,” 24″ x 30″, 2020 by Rasjad Hopkins
- Old Friends Harbor at Canavierias Bahia:
- The painting sets a scene of humid, overcast atmosphere with low warm grey light. Boats patiently await their next journey, carrying the history of countless crossings and tales of fishermen finding their catch.
“Old Friends Harbor at Canavierias Bahia,” 30″ x 40″, 2014 by Rasjad Hopkins
- Morro Sao Paulo:
- Transporting us to a hidden beach, Rasjad’s work invites us to discover azure and green waters, intriguing rock formations, and white sand shaded by local trees. In the silence, we can almost hear the rush of the waters against the shore.
“Morro Sao Paulo,” 24″ x 30″, 2020 by Rasjad Hopkins
Conclusion
Rasjad Hopkins leaves behind not just a body of work but a legacy that invites us to perceive the world through the lens of creativity and appreciation. In his own words:
I hope that in my work I have been able to capture some of the essence of what I have seen and felt and to share in the joy of discovery of beautiful and interesting places. I want to project in my work a sense of the respect and gratitude I feel for what we have been given in this world.
This tribute is a humble endeavor to celebrate the life and contributions of a remarkable artist, a loving father, and a soul who found beauty in every stroke of his artistic endeavors.
Thank you for taking the time to share this with all of us. The paintings are the work of a master artist. So beautiful!!
Thank you Roberta for sharing this special tribute to your father and his rich talents.
Thank you for celebrating Rasjad’s life and beautiful art legacy with us.
Rasjad was my friend for many years from the time he moved to
San Francisco. A number of hours chatting with him at his gallery
brought us to a lifelong friendship. We were together in Hawaii during the year(s) he lived there. I also lived in Hawaii during that time.
As we are both devoted to Subud there was much in common to share.
He was a good man, someone to be missed in this world, as a friend and artist extradinaire. May your good works bring you to blessings in heaven.
I can see that he was a very creative person, talented in multiple artistic areas. Thanks, Roberta, for sharing some of your memories of him.
Rasjad was a good friend for over sixty years, a fabulous artist, entrepreneur and a devoted Subud member!
Link to photos of Rasjad from the sixties to the recent present.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/XxQbZnFTUutcZr4GA
This is a link to a video interview with Rasjad a few months before his passing.
https://youtu.be/lVpoM3_FGmo
Thanks for the photos Rachman.
This is a wonderful tribute to a fine Subud artist! I have not seen these beauties from Rasjad – Thank you
super piece Roberta…. loved the guy, a jewel that shown so brightly among the Subud pioneers… God bless him 🙂
Truly beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
The pieces shown by Rasjad really do make the viewer feel as if they are a part of him. I met him once, and as the year is going by I’m starting to treasure our moments a little more. Wonderful article
I am so grateful for this tribute to your dad. I had no idea about his work as an artist and loved the review of his work. Peace and Blessings to you as you go through your life without him
A wonderful portrait, and his work is extraordinarily beautiful and moving. Thank you so much.
Thank you to everyone for sharing your kind comments and memories of Rasjad. I hope that by viewing his artwork, you can experience the essence of joy in what he saw and felt, as well as his respect and gratitude for the worldly gifts we are given.