The artwork, titled “Street Sounds East,” is a figurative piece created by Robert Rauschenberg in 1994 and is part of the Neo-Dada art movement. The composition of the artwork presents a collage-like arrangement, featuring three distinct sections that contribute to an urban narrative.
In the upper section, barbed wire and fences are depicted against a muted background, evoking a sense of restriction and confinement. The middle section portrays a dilapidated vehicle, further emphasizing themes of urban decay and neglect. The bottom section depicts a black cat caught behind a chain-link fence, symbolizing entrapment and the gritty reality of street life. The overall aesthetic of “Street Sounds East” reflects Rauschenberg’s innovative approach and mastery of integrating disparate elements to convey a cohesive, thought-provoking narrative.