Jackie Ferrara, a visionary sculptor celebrated for transforming minimalist principles into deeply architectural and geometric wooden forms, has passed away at the age of 95. According to her estate and legacy adviser, Tina Hejtmanek, Ferrara chose to end her life through medical aid in dying on Wednesday, October 22.

Over her six-decade career, Ferrara became one of the most influential figures in modern sculpture, known for her precise, hand-crafted wooden constructions made from pine or mahogany. Her works—characterized by intricate steps, platforms, and pyramid-like structures—blurred the boundaries between sculpture and architecture. They now grace collections at the Museum of Modern Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and numerous public spaces across the country.

Ferrara’s artistic voice was defined by discipline and independence—qualities that also shaped her personal philosophy. In one of her final interviews with The New York Times, she reflected candidly on her choice, saying that while she remained in good health, she had no wish to live in dependence on others after experiencing two falls within the past year. “I don’t want a housekeeper,” she said with characteristic frankness. “I never wanted anybody. I was married three times. That’s enough.”

Because medical aid in dying is not legal in New York, Ferrara traveled to Basel, Switzerland, to the Pegasos clinic, an organization that supports assisted dying for those making the decision voluntarily and without terminal illness. Her choice aligns with her lifelong embrace of autonomy, intellect, and courage—values that echoed throughout both her art and her life.

Ferrara’s passing marks the end of a profound era in contemporary sculpture. Her legacy endures through the timeless precision of her work, her pioneering spirit, and her unyielding commitment to artistic and personal freedom.

Her estate has announced that memorial details and plans to celebrate Ferrara’s life and contributions will be shared in the coming weeks.