American Narratives

American Narratives

Ed Ruscha’s groundbreaking artist books surprised the art world,  each rigorously documenting the artifacts of American popular culture. By capturing vernacular architecture, commercial signage and the iconography of the road, the publications established a visual language for understanding a now well-established mythos – that of the American Dream.

Ed Ruscha: Archaeology and Romance at Harry Ransom Center, Texas, uncovers his creative process, presenting over 150 objects that track each stage of production – from conception to publication. Featuring motifs such as the gas station, the apartment building, palm trees and  swimming pools, the images, drawings and prints on display tap in to a universal narrative.

The exhibition is open until 6 January. Find out more here.

Credits:
1. Ed Ruscha, Pool #7, from the portfolio Pools, 1968 © the artist and courtesy Harry Ransom Center
2.  Ed Ruscha, Phillips 66, Flagstaff, Arizona, 1962, Gelatin silver print © Ed Ruscha, Courtesy of the artist.
3. Ed Ruscha, Pool #2, ARTIST ROOMS National Galleries of Scotland and Tate. Lent by Artist Rooms Foundation 2011
Copyright: © Ed Ruscha.