Marlin’s design uses coded items from the paintings of Robert Rauschenberg and Jasper Johns to illustrate their relationship in the 1950s and the founding of American pop art. The target on the left figure’s chest is a common motif in Johns’ encaustic paintings; the quilted bed underneath both figures references one of Rauschenberg’s first combines, a hybrid sculptural form consisting of found objects painted expressively on a canvas support. Marlin’s quilt is both insightful and touching, as it cleverly calls attention to the neglected history of quilts in 20th-century modern art, while also acknowledging how Johns and Rauschenberg kept their own romantic relationship hidden out of professional and social necessity. The title refers to Leo Castelli—the gallery owner who gave many notable pop artists, including Johns, their first solo shows—as well as the two artists’ creative and personal relationship, which lasted from 1954-1961.

Techniques: Machine pieced, hand quilted
Culture: American
Geographic Location: North and Central America, United States
Credit Line: Gift of Raymond Wayne Ross