Robert Kushner

Robert Kushner’s use of pattern refers back to some of his early experiments from the 1970s combining geometric pattern with floral and figurative elements.  However, he now utilizes a full spectrum of color, gold, silver and patinated copper leaf and a fracturing of the patterns to create paintings that are both complex and exciting to decode. Kushner has continually addressed controversial and often subversive issues involving the interaction of decoration and art and has been considered one of the founders of the Pattern and Decoration movement. His paintings are overtly beautiful and unapologetically opulent. His exotic and unique color sense has an emotional range that varies from somber and contemplative to exuberant and celebratory. His work has been exhibited extensively in the United States, Europe, and Japan since 1975 when one of his paintings was included in the Whitney Biennial. In 1984.