LOCAL ARTIST PROFILE
Robert Ruby by Peri Hayes Offering insight into his initial artistic influence, the incredibly motivated Robert Ruby fondly recalls being eight years old and observing his father — a skillful mechanic — immersed in his craft with time dedicated to building race cars. Robert honed in on his undeniable creative drive, pursuing a formal education in Fine Art. Throughout his artistic journey, Robert has embraced his eclectic style. He enjoys painting and woodworking, with a focus on assemblage art. Accompanying Robert’s abundant creations displayed in his home studio is a book press from 1918, as well as a beautiful flower press. This artist repurposes a variety of materials for his thought-provoking pieces, which range in size. Robert describes his works as somewhat of a shrine. He candidly shares that he is living with an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) following a severe accident 25 years ago, an impact of this being that he lost his sense of taste and smell. His reflective piece titled Three Out of Five Ain’t Bad, for example, presents the absence of these senses as a 3-D visual and is included on the next page.Also highlighted is his Brush with Fame series, centred around components that Robert has lost through ABI -- some of which he has since rediscovered. Suitably, Number 14 in this collection is subtitled, Lost and Found . This model effectively depicts the themes of direction, identity and vision that Robert meticulously incorporates into his artistry. As symbolized in his current project titled The Mechanics of Meaning , Robert explores various moving parts with a concentration on motor functions. Through a sentimental
perspective, Robert portrays his personal experiences living with an ABI. Moreover, ‘The Mechanics of Meaning’ further exhibits this multifaceted artist’s ongoing love of assemblage art with an array of media showcased. Many of Robert’s pieces revolve around women, as he opines, “Mother Nature’s greatest gift to the human planet is women, and my dad taught me that.” Alongside partner, Angela Hardy, Robert celebrates their synergy. Angela is evidently the love of Robert’s life and a muse for his artistic ambition. Together, the pair collaborate and demonstrate the ways in which creativity is not singular. They particularly enjoy each creating their own version of one concept, which results in two final products and valued viewpoints.
“Self care is not a luxury. It is a necessity.”
truforu.ca
519-207-4878
Page 12 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2024
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@VillagerPublications.com
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs