Exploring Robert Rauschenberg’s Global Ambitions in a New London Exhibition
Rarely shown works by the late US artist Robert Rauschenberg, created for the Rauschenberg Overseas Culture Interchange (ROCI) in the 1980s, are on display at Thaddaeus Ropac gallery in London. The pieces, produced between 1984 and 1991, were part of a cross-border collaboration program in countries such as Mexico, Chile, China, and Cuba. This exhibition, the first gallery survey of ROCI since 1991, features works from the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation and includes pieces available for purchase. Rauschenberg meticulously planned each leg of the project, undertaking research trips to meet local artists, creating new works based on his experiences, and showcasing them alongside previous ROCI pieces. The internationalist aspect of ROCI resonates in today’s world, conveying a message of collaboration and cultural exchange. The project aimed to break down barriers and foster dialogue in regions where artistic expression was limited, reflecting Rauschenberg’s belief that art transcends borders and specialization leads to cultural stagnation.
Source
Naz Baydar graduated from Middle East Technical University with a degree in Product Design. She furthered her education by completing a master’s degree in Art Direction at Elisava in Barcelona. Her work blends art direction, multimedia narratives, and design to craft innovative and transformative experiences. Naz is passionate about creating visual stories that evoke strong emotions and deliver meaningful impact. In addition to her work, she has a deep interest in philosophy and literature, which continuously inspire and enrich her creative process.