Bob’s New York: Bob’s New York

Bob’s New York

Lafayette Street (1965–70)

In 1965, Rauschenberg left his Broadway studio after purchasing a former orphanage and chapel of Saint Joseph’s Union Mission of the Immaculate Virgin on Lafayette Street. Not only was Lafayette Street a residence for Rauschenberg, it was a hub for his performance rehearsals, exhibitions, press conferences, and social gatherings. Critic Barbara Rose remembers visiting the “ward” on Lafayette: "It was amazing. Everyone knew that if the bottom fell out from under them they could always turn to Bob." Rauschenberg lived and worked at Lafayette Street until 1970, when he relocated his studio to Captiva, Florida. He kept the Lafayette building, staying and working there during his frequent trips back to New York City.

A 1987 installation of Yellow Moby Glut (1986), G-1 Glut (1986), and A-1 Centipede (1986) in Rauschenberg’s 381 Lafayette Street studio, New York. Photograph Collection. Robert Rauschenberg Foundation Archives, New York.