FEATURED ARTIST - ROBERT THORNBURGH

How long have you been a member of the GCWS and why did you join?
I have been a member of the GCWS for two months.  I joined because I recently retired from government service in Washington D.C and moved to the Cincinnati area.  I used to teach art and thought it would be fun to reengage in the art community. I truly have a passion for painting.  

What are some of your artistic achievements?  
My work is included in several prominent collections including Whirlpool Corporation, Marion Power Shovel, Wyandot Popcorn, the Cellar Memorial Art Gallery, the Law offices of Brent Harraman and former Manager of the New York Yankees, Billy Martin. I won “Best of Show for my painting “The Family Tree” from the Marion Juried Fine Arts Festival. I have received rewards and recognition in various juried art shows in the Central Ohio area.  Currently I am working on private commissions and preparing a body of work for my upcoming show in Middletown, Ohio.  

Describe your usual procedures for creating a painting.
My work is a response to and an exploration of the vibrant multicultural experiences from my youth.  I grew up on the South side of Cleveland, Ohio at a time when everyone lived in ethnic neighborhoods.  The beauty and excitement of the diversity I witnessed infuse its energy into all of my expressions as an artist.
These impressions from my childhood find me consistently searching for variety and color in every corner of my life.  Reflections of these moments are at the core of my work. 
I use watercolors as the primary pathway to connect my inner life and experiences with the outer world; they provide a fluid medium that always surprises and delights during the creative process.  I don’t feel bound by convention and use multiple techniques and experimentation; even occasionally cutting into the surface of the paper.  I allow the looser nature of the paints to provide enhancement or counterbalance to the tighter elements of the work.  I love to layer the colors so that their luminescent character shines through while still allowing the viewer to see and feel the brushwork. 
While working, I am engrossed in the process.  Every brushstroke is a decision, a counterstroke, a correction or enhancement, or the start of a new visual pathway.  I want the viewer to join me on a journey to see not only what I see, but to discover some visual elements that bridge an emotional resonance with the piece.

How long have you been painting?
I have been painting all of my life.  I painted professionally for approximately 15 years, before going to work for the Federal Government.  I took a 28 year hiatus and have re-emerged two months ago to pursue a professional career while feeding my passion to paint and create.

In what medium, other than watercolor or acrylic, do you work?
Pen and Ink.
 
Where do you get your inspiration for paintings?
People, places and things.  Inspiration is everywhere.

Are you a teacher?
Yes.  I taught art professionally for 17 years.

Where do you see yourself in the future?  (i.e., is painting a hobby; will you enter shows; do you see yourself teaching?)
I want to be in professional shows and organizations.  Ultimately I would like to see my works in institutions, galleries, museums, and collections.

Your website:  www.robertthornburgh.com
Your blog spot:  robertthornburgh.com