Laura Robb's Journey
Acclaimed still life painter Laura Robb shares her 40+ year artistic journey in this intimate conversation. Born in Winfield, Kansas in 1955, Robb discusses her unconventional path from studying under Frank Reilly's rigorous value-based system in Tulsa to training with Michael Aviano in New York City at age 19, followed by years of guidance from master painter Richard Schmid.
Key Insights from This Interview
• Her early training in Frank Reilly's controlled value system and strings of grays
• Moving to Manhattan at 19 to study with Michael Aviano
• Four to five years of invaluable critique sessions with Richard Schmid
• Working across multiple mediums: oils, watercolors, pastels, and charcoal
• Why she works exclusively from direct observation for her still life paintings
• The importance of learning to "see as an artist sees"
• How flowers and still life subjects move more than viewers realize
• The appeal of John Singer Sargent's work, especially "The Breakfast Table"
• Advice on staying with one program until mastering fundamentals
About Laura Robb's Philosophy
Robb reveals why she believes the appeal of her still life work stems from direct observation rather than photographic reference—a quality viewers intuitively respond to even if they can't articulate why. She emphasizes that while cameras are valuable tools, artists must work from life extensively to understand the subtle differences cameras miss. Her advice to aspiring painters: focus on making your work better rather than the business side, keep life simple with minimal distractions, and stay committed to one solid teaching program before exploring others.
