Considered as one of the most influential American artists, Robert Rauschenberg radically blended materials and methods and expanded the traditional boundaries of art. He was a crucial figure in transitioning away from the abstract expressionism movement and was a key artist in establishing the Neo-Dada movement. As seen in Rauschenberg’s Deposit, he often used popular media and mass-produced goods to reflect his visions. Merging the realms of Kitsch and fine art, Rauschenberg used traditional media and found objects, inserting photographs and urban detritus among standard wall paintings. He preferred to leave any interpretations of his pieces to the viewers and even allowed chance to determine the placement and combination of his found images in his artworks. Born in Texas, Rauschenberg grew up in a small, conservative town. Although he would frequently draw and copy images from comics, his talent went unappreciated. Assumingly destined to become minister (a common career of high standing in his town), it was not until Rauschenberg discovered that the church found dancing a sin that he pursued different dreams. As an avid dancer, Rauschenberg could not commit to a career in the ministry. Since becoming an artist, he has been collected by many museums including the Guggenheim and has his own foundation to foster his life’s work as an artist.

This portfolio of prints demonstrates the depth and breadth of art making in 1976 America. Commissioned for the 1976 celebration of the American Bicentennial, it includes works by James Rosenquist, Roy Lichtenstein, Allan D’Arcangelo, William Bailey, Edward Ruscha, Christo, James Brooks, Costantino Nivola, Velox Ward, Raymond Saunders, Robert Andrew Parker, and Ben Schonzeit.