ASHLAND– The December/January edition of Plein Air Magazine features a six-page profile of Ashland resident and artist Robin Roberts, including samples of his paintings.
The magazine’s editor recently notified Roberts that he was selected for the artist profile section of the publication. Roberts was interviewed and submitted several paintings — eight of which are featured in the print version of the magazine, along with two sketches. More paintings will be included in the digital version due to be released in December.
“I am honored to be recognized in Plein Air Magazine as I have enjoyed the past profiles of my peers and mentors in this publication,” Roberts said. “I am humbled to be in their ranks.”
Plein air describes the act of painting in the open air. When painting in this, his preferred style, Roberts sets up an easel outside and paints what he sees, accepting the challenge of constantly changing light, wind, weather patterns, temperature, and even bugs.
“I love the unique opportunity to be outdoors enjoying nature as I develop my painting skills. It’s a nice escape from my graphic design work, and it stretches me creatively,” Roberts said.
As the owner and president of Red Red Design, Roberts returned to fine art painting in both oils and watercolor as a hobby in 2008. A friend invited him to participate in a plein air paint out, a gathering of artists who paint together in a particular location. He attended and was immediately hooked.
Since then, Roberts has participated in numerous paint outs and plein air competitions in Ohio and across the nation. He currently serves as president of the Ohio Plein Air Society (OPAS) and has assisted in its leadership since 2012.
Roberts sells his oil and watercolor original paintings at www.robinrobertsfineart.com and is often commissioned for customized paintings.
For the holidays, he will host a pop-up gallery in downtown Ashland at 106 East Main Street (formerly Sam Taylor Fine Jewelry Store). His paintings will be displayed and available for purchase, some at deeply discounted prices.
The Robin Roberts Fine Art Pop-Up Gallery plans to be open Fridays, noon to 6 pm and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. until Christmas. Roberts will also participate in the Miracle on Main Street Celebration and Shop Hop, offering extended hours on Dec. 1 and 2.
Roberts is available by appointment as well. Contact him at 419-606-1620 or email robin@robinrobertsfineart.com.
