Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
5th Ave at 89th St
New York City
After first experimenting with the collage technique in 1943, Robert Motherwell (1915–1991) described the medium the following year as “the greatest of our discoveries.” On view through January 5, 2014, Robert Motherwell: Early Collages presents a focused exploration of Motherwell’s papiers collés and related works on paper from the first decade of his career. The following public programs accompany the exhibition and include a lecture, a gallery program, and several exhibition tours led by museum specialists.
Lecture
Tearing Off and Beginning Again
Catherine Craft, Adjunct Assistant Curator for Research and Exhibitions, Nasher Sculpture Center
Tuesday, October 22, 6:30pm
Robert Motherwell’s involvement with collage in the 1940s paralleled his activities as a writer and editor. He often described his artistic work in editorial terms, referring to changes taking place in his paintings and collages as acts of revision. His intensive engagement with Dada at this time, while editing the landmark anthology The Dada Painters and Poets (1951), particularly affected his thoughts about collage, creativity, and the role of destruction in the creation of art. In this program, art historian Catherine Craft will explore the relationship between artistic and editorial processes through Motherwell’s treatment of paper. An exhibition viewing and a reception follow the program.
Gallery Program
Made of Paper: Motherwell’s Materials in the 1940s
Jeffrey Warda, Conservator, Paper, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
Tuesday, December 3, 6:30pm
Offering a unique opportunity to engage with Robert Motherwell: Early Collages, this in-gallery program focuses on the materials and techniques that the artist used to create his early works. Exhibition catalogue contributor and paper conservator Jeffrey Warda will share his research of Motherwell’s early collages, and discuss how the artist chose specific types of papers, paints, and adhesives to achieve different results. A cash bar reception follows the program.
For Visitors with Disabilities
Mind’s Eye
Monday, October 7, 6:30pm
Wednesday, October 9, 2pm
For visitors who are blind or have low vision, tours of Robert Motherwell: Early Collages are presented through Verbal Imaging and touch. FREE with RSVP. For more information, visit guggenheim.org/mindseye.
Tours
Exhibition walkthroughs led by Guggenheim curators and conservators take place on select Fridays at 2pm. Tours are FREE with museum admission and no advance registration is required. For the complete schedule, visit guggenheim.org/calendar.
Information and Tickets
For tickets and program information, visit guggenheim.org/motherwell or call the box office at 212 423 3587.
