Correspondence with Ansel Adams (1979)
The following are from some postcards exchanged between Ruth and Ansel Adams in 1979. Ruth and Ansel got to now each other during her time in San Francisco in the late 1920s. Though the letters are from much later, they reference their friendship and adventures together during this period….
8/4/1979
Ansel Adams
Ansel Adams
Ansel Adams
The name rings loud and clear back to the late 20s when I was a student at Cal in Berkeley and living with my Aunt Millie Oppenheimer and Uncle Max Rosenberg in San Francisco. Somehwat hazily, I associate brother Maurice Oppenheimer and Dad O’Rourke with you too. Could you have joined us on the trails thru the Muir Woods? Up to Mt. Tamalpais?
I learned from Ingrid at the Modern Museum that John Szarkowski is mounting an exhibition of your photographs September 8th. I’ve always admired your art form. Would you do me the honor of coming to dinner ANY NIGHT YOU WISH so we may reminisce – and perhaps be friends? I am keeping a calendar FREE while I await your response. I will be in New York the whole month of September.
Warmly,
R.W.
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8/18/79
Dear Ruth Weiss
Dear Ruth Weiss
Dear Ruth Weiss
How good to hear from you! I remember you and, more hazily, the others you speak of. I probably did join you on the Muir woods trails, etc. It was quite a long time ago!!
I shall be in NY for the opening of my exhibit, and, on Sept. 11,for my lecture at the MOMA. In the mean time, I am travelling around with a LARGE schedule. I would love to be with you for a supper, but every night in NY is double filled and I do not know how to manage it all! I APPRECIATE YOUR INVITATION , but hope to see you at the Museum. Sorry it can’t be more of a meeting!
Warmest greetings and regards as ever,
Ansel Adams
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9/5/79
AA
AA
AA
I’m still flying after the exquisite show at the Modern. That name will reverberate throughout Yosemite- New Mexico, and the WORLD for eternity. What a heritage you provide us. Thank you.
I love your Bear Hugs and Bear Looks.
I love your lovely warm wife.
I love your love for all that touches you.
I hope your eastern visit inspired you to greater heights. Safe return.
Thank you for your warm embrace.
Love,
Ruth Weiss
p.s. Is it possible that you would still have the negative of “Moonrise Over Hernandez?” And if so, could I purchase 4 prints for my children – so they may share my experience of your greatness. I’d so appreciate having a positive answer.
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Sept 27, 1979
Dear Ruth,
Your letter of September 5th was awaiting my return from our trip last Friday. Sorry to be so long in replying! It was really good to see you, if only briefly, at the MOMA opening. What a celebration!
I stopped selling photographs in 1975 and can’t break my agreement, so I regretfully cannot sell you any copies of Moonrise. And as it is now going for $8,000 I frankly don’t know how ANYONE can afford it! Wish I could help out but I know you will understand. We send our love,
Ansel Adams
“Moonrise, Hernandez”, Ansel Adams’ photograph which Ruth wanted to get for her “children”. It was taken well after their friendship and remains one of his most famous works.
ruthweissremembered 