Peeling back Robert Rauschenberg’s solvent transfers
An entire room at Tate Modern's widely acclaimed Robert Rauschenberg retrospective is dedicated to his transfer drawings. The focus is on one series that makes use of the technique – the renowned 1958 interpretation of Dante's Inferno. But over a two decade period, Rauschenberg created many more of these solvent transfers. A rare selection of these further, essential works are currently on display across town in Mayfair at Offer Waterman gallery, until 13 January 2017
Robert Rauschenberg first began experimenting with the medium in 1952, before his seminal Combines. But it was the late 1950s and early 60s that the artist's interest in the transferal technique accelerated, resulting in many of the works collected at Offer Waterman. Pictured, January First, 1962
These transfers anticipate Rauschenberg's iconoclastic late 60s silk screens, which appropriate elements of contemporary media, from newspapers to sports illustrated. Pictured, Umpire, 1965
The transfers were made in signature Rauschenberg style, with everyday, 'non-art' objects and methods. As he commented at the time, 'The strongest thing about my work, if I must say this, is the fact that I chose to ennoble the ordinary.' Pictured, Complete Relaxation, 1958
By using images repurposed from this broad selection of media outlets, Rauschenberg was wittingly capturing a texture of the times. The resulting works are at once historical documents, a slice of the zeitgeist, and a thrilling insight into the major artist's oeuvre. Intended to complement Tate Modern's thorough retrospective, this exhibition shines a fine spotlight on one of Rauschenberg's most important, yet often overlooked, moments. Pictured, Apology, 1968
Wallpaper* Newsletter
Receive our daily digest of inspiration, escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox.
-
Santa Monica hotspot The Georgian Room is a rare, well-done steakhouse speakeasy
Hidden inside The Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica, a restored speakeasy that lovingly nods to its storied past
By Kevin EG Perry Published
-
In St Barths, Cheval Blanc is an oceanside oasis soaking in turquoise views
Following its 10th anniversary, Cheval Blanc St-Barth continues to shine as a pearl of the Caribbean
By Tianna Williams Published
-
We celebrate the emerging London architects to be excited about
These emerging London architects are some of the capital's finest ground-breakers, movers and shakers; heralding a new generation of architecture
By Ellie Stathaki Published