Exclusive Episode #046: Robert Ryman installing "Philadelphia Prototype" (2002) at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Philadelphia.

Robert Rymans work explodes the classical distinctions between art as object and art as surface, sculpture and painting, structure and ornamentemphasizing instead the role that perception and context play in creating an aesthetic experience. Ryman isolates the most basic of components—material, scale, and support—enforcing limitations that allow the viewer to focus on the physical presence of the work in space.

Learn more about Robert Ryman: http://www.art21.org/artists/robert-ryman

VIDEO | Producer: Susan Sollins & Nick Ravich. Camera: Bob Elfstrom & Mead Hunt. Sound: Tom Bergin & Roger Phenix. Editor: Monte Matteotti. Artwork courtesy: Robert Ryman. Thanks: The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.