Art in Flight: Reinventing Postmodernism with Smithsonian Curator Carolyn Russo

Join the South Coastal Library in Bethany Beach for a captivating online conversation with acclaimed author and Smithsonian curator Carolyn Russo as they dive into her fascinating book, "The Ascent of Rauschenberg". Explore the towering legacy, unexpected inspirations, and creative heights of one of America's most influential artistic icons.

Most famous for his groundbreaking "Combines"— painting and sculpture hybrids that often incorporated everyday objects—American artist Robert Rauschenberg (1925-2008) created within a range of mediums, including collage, performance, photography, and printmaking. But a connective tissue through it all was his fascination with flight. "The Ascent of Rauschenberg" explores the flight motif across his work, spanning birds, insects, aviation, spaceflight, sensory experiences, and metaphors for his own life.

More than 150 images reveal the vibrant scope of his work, from lithographs inspired by the Apollo 11 launch that NASA invited him to witness and document, to a Combine featuring a taxidermied eagle that evokes Roman mythology. Nine accompanying essays reflect on his many flight themes and subtleties that might otherwise be overlooked. The book also includes archival photographs and personal papers from the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation.

Register now for the chance to view art history through the unique prism of flight.