Skip to Content

The Arts Intel Report

Robert Rauschenberg: Copperheads 1985/1989

Robert Rauschenberg, Copperhead-Bite IV/ROCI CHILE, 1985.

Nov 3 – Dec 23, 2022
122-1 Dokseodang-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

In 1984, the artist Robert Rauschenberg traveled to Chile, where he visited a copper mine and foundry. While there, he met the Chilean artist Benito Rojo, who has always used many techniques in his paintings. The two artists discussed the effects of tarnishing agents on copper. In 1985, Rauschenberg created 12 metal works—called Copperhead-Bites—in which photographs and silkscreens were collaged on copper supports. Between 1985 and 1989, he completed 14 more series in this style. A selection of these stunning Copperhead works comprise this show. —Elena Clavarino

Photo courtesy of Thaddeus Ropac