Bio —

The map in his studio is peppered with pushpins. His hats have hung in Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming and Oregon, as well as Scotland and Nicaragua. Now staying closer to his Portland, Oregon home to watch in fascination as his son grows, he continues to explore life from inside. His art is an expression and interpretation of his experience, and of that which exists in the world around him. Listening to his thoughts, watching him work and witnessing pieces of his art come to life gives me many reasons to celebrate my own.

Robbe has been creating art and stoneware for many years. He was awarded a scholarship to Grays School of the Arts in Aberdeen, Scotland after winning a statewide competition while in college. This gave him the opportunity to focus on a more technical side of art. After graduating, (third year abroad) he continued his education at Oregon State University earning a BFA and BS. He now lives and works from his studio in Portland.

Robbe has been influenced by Frances Bacon, Robert Rauschenberg, Dondi White, Terry Stokes and Sharon Olds. Much of what he does, in art and in life, he has taught himself to do, and he loves that process. Having traveled across many borders, and realizing they are simply illusions designed to contain and separate, his work gravitates toward the edge.

As you may notice, there is little separation between the art Robbe creates, and how he exists. The various media he uses can be seen playing across boundaries, mixing with each other, and leaving heavy threads interwoven in the tapestry of his life.

Robbe is uniquely creative. Sometimes I am simply amazed. The little blue house, studio and the refuge that surrounds them are a reflection of his unbound spirit. I hope you find much joy in the work he has chosen to share with you.

– Robbe