Lepper, Robert (American, West Virginian/Pennsylvanian 1906-1991), Abstract Wall Construction, circa 1960, Medium: Plexiglas, metal rods, metal clad wood, Dimensions: 37 x 60 x 2.75 inches, Robert L. Lepper (1906-1991) was born in Aspinwall, PA near Pittsburgh and graduated from Carnegie Institute of Technology in 1927 (now Carnegie Mellon University). After spending thirteen months in Europe studying art, Lepper worked for the "Sun-Telegraph" as a "hack artist." He joined the faculty at Carnegie Tech in 1930, where he would remain until his retirement in 1975. He married Helen Jewett in 1933. They had one daughter, Susan.Mr. Lepper was instrumental in establishing the first degree-granting School of Industrial Design at Carnegie Tech in 1934. It was the first of its kind in the country. Many people credit him with developing the academic discipline of Industrial Design. To ease the employment problems caused by the Great Depression, the Works Progress Administration established the Federal Arts Project(1935-1943) to employ the nation's artists. During this time The Treasury Department also established two art programs in the 1930s; the Treasury Relief Art Project and the Section of Fine Arts. Mr. Lepper did two murals in post offices in Grayling, Michigan and Caldwell, Ohio for the Section of Fine Arts(1934-1943). He also painted a mural for the new Mineral Industries Building for West Virginia University during 1940-1942 which depicted the prevalent industries in West Virginia. This mural is one of the most important mural projects done in the tri-state area. Lepper also pioneered the use of plastic (acrylic resin) with powdered pigments in his art work of which this relief is an excellent example. As an educator, he believed in letting students be independent thinkers and use their own creativity. He developed a curriculum within the School of Industrial Design that emphasized this independence in students. One class he taught was Individual and Social Analysis which was a two semester course begun in 1965. The first semester was the Oakland Project. The second semester was called the Retrospective As an Artist. During his tenure at Carnegie Mellon he was one of the most significant influences on Andy Warhol. The project Warhol generated for Lepper's class is one of Warhol's most important early works. Robert Lepper was very much influenced by the impact of the machine on society which is seen in his art work.

In good condition with minor inherent yellowing and light surface scratching to the plexi-glass surfaces. Merchandise will be packed and transported by the purchaser at their own risk and expense. A list of recommended shippers is on our website: https://www.conceptgallery.com/auctions/shipping/ .