At Maplewood, we believe that life’s passions don’t fade with age – they flourish. Our communities are a vibrant group of individuals, each with their own unique stories and talents. We take pride in nurturing these passions by providing a supportive environment where our residents can continue to grow, create, and inspire others.
One resident who continues to impress his community with his art is Bob. Bob’s journey as an artist spans decade, from his childhood to his current role within his community. His tale is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the importance of lifelong learning.
Q: Can you tell me about your background and how you first became interested in art?
I started drawing cows, with all of their “equipment,” and WWI biplanes, an interest of all the boys at the time, in first grade. I pursued my art as a child because of the encouragement of my art teacher and her admiration of my work. She kept many of my pieces to use in instructing others.
Q: Did you receive any formal training in art, or are you self-taught?
I received basic training in Grammar School as part of the curriculum offered to all students at the time. I had no opportunity to pursue art in college, so I taught myself through experimentation. Later, I was able to take some art lessons with private instructors and, in my 40s, I attended night school at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. I also wrote a thesis for a class at the University of Bridgeport comparing Edward Hopper’s art to Thomas Wolfe’s novel, “Look Homeward, Angel.” I still find this comparison fascinating!
Q: How would you describe your artistic style?
Realism! I am a great admirer of Andrew Wyeth and especially Edward Hopper…as well as the life and sculpture of Michelangelo. I am inspired by how Hopper stimulates the imagination and uses the universal theme of loneliness to invite the views to creatively consider the painting and subject matter.
Q: Can you walk me through your creative process from the initial idea to the finished piece?
As an artist, I am very observant of the people and things around me. I try to recognize and capture the mood beyond myself. I find Maplewood at Brewster and my neighboring residents a “goldmine” of subjects! I work quickly when making portraits – using a charcoal pencil, sandpaper to keep it sharp, a rubber eraser, and a pure white pastel…and my fingers, of course, for blending and bringing believability to my subjects. Each portrait takes about thirty minutes; I never want to fuss too much. I start with capturing the eyes, moving to the nose (or “fenders” as I call nostrils), and down to the mouth. Cheeks and hair finish the portrait, and all aspects are created with sensitivity to capturing the play of light on the face, especially the eyes.
Q: Do you have a favorite subject or theme that you like to explore in your artwork?
Houses, landscapes, and portraits. I believe a craggily old guy with wrinkles is better than a perfectly beautiful woman as a subject…wrinkles are a big part of my portraits!
Q: What role has art played in your life over the years?
Art has been a major passion – both in studying the art of others and imagining the setting, as well as creating my own art.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about creating art?
Giving it away and seeing the reaction of my subjects in receiving it!
Q: How has living in an assisted living community influenced your art?
Having the “goldmine” of fellow residents as subjects has greatly influenced my art – and their affirmation of my talent has been very rewarding to me.
Bob’s artistic journey is a shining example of how passion and creativity can continue to thrive and evolve throughout one’s life. As a result of Bob’s recent art show at Maplewood, and this interview, Bob will be leading a live art demonstration for residents next month. He wants to invite others into his creative process, increase the understanding of his portraiture, and encourage other residents to join him in drawing.
At Maplewood, we’re proud to provide an environment where each resident can share their unique talents or find new hobbies. Bob’s journey reminds us of the importance of nurturing these passions and providing opportunities for self-expression. It’s stories like his that make Maplewood not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.
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