Jael (1937-2020)

Artist JAEL, 83, died November 17, 2020. Jael’s artistic career spanned six decades, during which she published hundreds of SF book and magazine cover illustrations, in addition to fine arts work and other commissions. Some of her art was collected in Perceptualistics (2002). She was nominated for eight Chesley Awards from 1985-2002.

Jael Ashton was born October 31, 1937, and grew up in Utah. She worked as a professional artist for 15 years before getting an art degree from the University of Utah in 1973. She taught art in Utah and Nevada before moving to the New York area in 1986, where she began to focus on SF art, first doing covers for Baen and DAW before expanding to other publishes and magazines. She later relocated to St. Augustine FL, where she continued painting and teaching art.

Jael is survived by husband Greg Ruesch, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

For more, see her entry in the Encyclopedia of Science Fiction.

3 thoughts on “Jael (1937-2020)

  • July 26, 2021 at 9:43 am
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    Met Jael in Little Falls NJ I serviced boiler for her and Greg who was a police officer in Fairfield NJ So sorry to hear of Jael passing I have her book which she autographed for me My deepest sympathy to family Pat Hagerty

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    • November 12, 2021 at 10:51 am
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      Pat I just saw your post I am not that savy when it comes to modern tech .it will be one year in a week since she left me.I miss her greatly but know that I will be with her in eternity. Stay safe. Greg

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      • December 2, 2021 at 7:05 pm
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        Not much of internet guy but I wanted to say how sorry I am for your loss ,my name is Daniel . Jael was one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever known in life .she will always be a part of all of the people she touched ,my sister Dorothy said before we new , Jael was the best friend I ever had in life . I agree

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