Born in Brooklyn, Robert Tannen spent his first years on the beaches of and near Coney Island. He first began making art at three years of age, and first showed work in a gallery at 18. He attended Pratt Institute and later taught art there as he earned his Master of Fine Arts degree.

The 1947 hurricane destroyed many mature trees around Tannen’s home, and in 1954 Hurricane Hazel destroyed a wooden boat he loved. Thus began a lifelong concern about climate change. In 1969, Tannen traveled to the Gulf Coast of Mississippi to help guide the planning of its redevelopment after Camille. Hurricanes and environmental challenges and disasters remain a core thread in his life. Generally Tannen’s art reflects his philosophy and ideas rather than a focus on aesthetics, materials or artifice. He hopes to call attention to important issues of our times and future.

Tannen’s role as an urban planner has long been in sync with his art work. He led planning projects that led to the site and building of the Crescent Connection and the unique circular ramp that prevented destruction of the Coliseum square area in New Orleans. Tannen led the identification and planning of the city’s 70+ historic neighborhoods and the creation of the Historic Districts Landmark Commission.