Most of my work revolves around the tensions between two dichotomous worlds: the external landscape (as we see the world around us), and the inner self (which is a landscape of its own). This inner world tends to control our perceptions of the outside world. As theologian Philip Sheldrake writes "the concept of place refers not simply to geographical location but to a dialectical relationship between environment and human narrative.” The external landscape exists in tension with the inner self, and the meaning of place is constructed by the interpenetration of these two worlds. Through the use of images associated with these different frames of reference, sometimes simplified and at other times abstracted, I seek to convey the dialogue between these two levels of perception. I juxtapose and interweave emblems of the external landscape such as trees, mountains, suns, and clouds with iconography associated with the internal likenesses of bones, eyes, heads, and other embodiments. My hope is that the viewer will sense a spiritual direction across these two planes of our existence and be inclined to contemplate the meaning as it applies to their own movement. This relationship to the viewer is important, for I follow many critics, most notably Roland Barthes, who believe that when a work leaves the artist’s studio, the image belongs to the viewer for the duration they spend with the work: for this time, the piece is theirs.

Bio

Born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, February 17, 1973, to Ed and June Wright, Rob was one of three boys raised in a military family. There were frequent moves including Virginia, California, Colorado, and Saudi Arabia. High School was attended at Rampart High School, Colorado Springs, CO. During high school, the passion for art was released and led to further studies upon graduation. Santa Fe, New Mexico is where the pursuit of a Bachelor’s Degree of Fine Arts was obtained. While attending the college, the interest in printing, specifically block printing was piqued. Initially a sculpture major, there was a draw to the sculptural aspects of the block carving process. Further investigation and practice revealed the desire to utilize the actual wood block as an intricate displayable part of the print. Upon graduation from college, this idea has remained a central theme of the work. Currently employed as a sleep technician, Rob has continued to show work and develop the vision; the action is being taken to move towards the point where sole creation becomes possible.

To See The Cycle

Winter Sky

To Step From Dark To Light

Out Of My Hands

To Set The Intention