Linking two influential figures in American art, this fascinating catalogue explores the intersection between works by modern master Robert Rauschenberg (19252008) and innovative contemporary artist Rachel Harrison (b. 1966). Taking its name from Gloria, an iconic Rauschenberg work in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, the book covers multiple aspects of Harrisons career thus far, and uses her work as a lens to explore the lasting influence of Rauschenberg. Two essays underline the reason for this pairing: one, by Beau Rutland, takes a thematic approach to the interplay between Rauschenbergs and Harrisons practices; the other, by Johanna Burton, presents a more nuanced look at Harrisons oeuvre. Harrison herself debuts new digital collages created specifically for this publication. The first book to compare Rauschenberg and Harrison, Rachel Harrison: G-L-O-R-I-A brings a completely new perspective to these well-known subjects.
Distributed for the Cleveland Museum of Art
Exhibition Schedule:
Cleveland Museum of Art
(07/01/1510/25/15)
Delve into the fascinating artistic dialogue between two titans of American art with "Rachel Harrison: G-L-O-R-I-A." This thought-provoking exploration, authored by Beau Rutland and published in conjunction with a celebrated exhibition at the Cleveland Museum of Art, intricately examines the profound and lasting influence of Robert Rauschenberg (19252008) on the innovative contemporary practice of Rachel Harrison (b. 1966). More than just a catalogue, "Rachel Harrison: G-L-O-R-I-A" serves as a critical bridge connecting the seemingly disparate worlds of these two artists. Taking its title from Rauschenberg's iconic work "Gloria," held within the Cleveland Museum of Art's esteemed collection, the book meticulously unpacks the thematic resonances and conceptual echoes that reverberate between their oeuvres. Harrison's work, known for its challenging and often humorous deconstruction of art historical conventions and pop culture detritus, becomes a unique lens through which to re-evaluate Rauschenberg's pioneering approach to assemblage, collage, and the blurring of boundaries between art and life. Rutland's insightful essay provides a thematic framework, carefully dissecting the shared concerns and conceptual throughlines that unite Rauschenberg and Harrison. This analysis considers their mutual engagement with found objects, their subversive use of media imagery, and their shared commitment to pushing the limits of artistic expression. Complementing this is Johanna Burton's nuanced exploration of Harrison's individual artistic trajectory, placing her work within the broader context of contemporary art while highlighting its unique and often provocative character. Burton's contribution provides a deeper understanding of Harrison's distinct voice and her critical engagement with the legacy of artists like Rauschenberg. Adding a unique layer of insight, "Rachel Harrison: G-L-O-R-I-A" features the debut of new digital collages created by Harrison specifically for this publication. These exclusive works offer a fresh perspective on her ongoing artistic inquiry and further illuminate the themes explored throughout the book. This publication is not simply a record of the exhibition but an independent artwork in its own right. It provides an opportunity to experience Harrison's creative process and further contemplate the relationship between her work and Rauschenberg's. This meticulously crafted volume is the first book to explicitly compare and contrast the works of Rauschenberg and Harrison. It provides a fresh and compelling perspective on both artists, inviting readers to reconsider their individual contributions to the art world and the broader cultural landscape. "Rachel Harrison: G-L-O-R-I-A" is essential reading for scholars, art enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the evolution of American art and the enduring power of artistic influence. Explore the groundbreaking intersection of these two influential artists and gain a new appreciation for their innovative approaches to art making. The book provides new insights into the methods of both artists, the impact of mass media on their artwork, the evolution of modern and contemporary art, and much more. It goes beyond a simple review of their works and instead examines the deeper meanings that are present in their art.
