Rauschenberg was one of America's most original artists, being the first to win the Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale in 1964. Within his career he was able to create a critical between abstract expressionists in the 1950's and pop artists which started to emerge in the 60's. He constantly experimented with a range of materials and medias over a period of 6 decades. Rauschenberg stated: "I am not interested in what I know or think I can do" meaning once he had mastered a skill, he was no longer interested in perusing further using that particular media. From the 50's onwards, Rauschenberg participated in every major movement. The 60's was where the passion for dancing and preforming came to life thus moving from the painting scene to the theatre. Some of his theatre work includes 'Spring Training', 1965 and the 'Map Room', 1965. In January 1966, Rauschenberg created a live performing piece called 'Open Score' which was preformed inform of around 10,000 spectators. This began with a couple playing tennis, however in the racket was an FM transmitter which then transmitted sound to an FM radio then to the sound system; creating a noise whenever the ball was hit. As well as this, every time the ball was hit a light would go out; eventually creating overall darkness.  In the venue Rauschenberg noticed a 5 second echo which he used to his advantage. 

In the early 80's Rauschenberg began to become concerned with environmental issues not only locally but globally. Shifting his focus on creating artwork for within a humanitarian project in order to promote world piece. Within a decade, he was able to visit around 11 countries challenging them with their political issues and talking to the indigenous people. Rauschenberg gathered a range of objects and information to produce work not for himself but for the people offering an alternative way on thinking and seeing.  

By 2002, Rauschenberg suffered a stoke causing paralysis to his right arm therefore he was unable to produce anymore work placing him into retirement. 

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