Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Andrade.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
While attending community college I began taking photography classes. This was my introduction into making things in a more serious manner. Of course, like most, I did drawings as a kid and made crafts, but it wasn’t until my early 20’s that I started to consider art as something I could do in a serious way, as a profession or something to study for a degree. I had a professor who was very influential for me. He took the time to go over my work and really was the first person to exemplify what an artist does and how one exists and makes a living. Once I figured this out I put everything I had into making work and studying art as much as I could.
Within my family there are a lot of people who do various kinds of construction and craft making. For instance my grandfather was journeyman wielder. My dad has always owned his own residential painting company. I have an uncle who is a really awesome carpenter and another uncle who does stucco work. My mom has always kept a sewing room. I’m sure having this around me is an important factor as to why I make things because I was put to work early on. I remember helping my uncle in the wood shop. Just doing basic things and helping him organize.
Please tell us about your art.
I work in all mediums at any given time. Though my work is primarily object based, I also do drawings, music, video, and various types of design. Some of the things I consider while making work are ideas related to the city and spatial politics. I like to investigate public spaces and ideas related to power in both a contemporary and historical context.
Of course, this is how I think of what I do and it helps inform my decision making, but I don’t necessarily think the viewer needs to take all of this from the work. All readings are valid and I think that’s what makes art unique. The grey area, the in-between and what others pick up on. All-in-all I hope people take something to really think about when they look at my work. I hope it stays with them. Whatever that may be for each person.
We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
I think this is more of a media myth or stereotype. However, I do think being alone is important to generate ideas. At least for me anyway.
A good thing to do is look at work and invite people for studio visits. Also, don’t just talk to people because you think you may get something from them. People can sense when someone is genuine and it goes a long way. Most importantly, support other peoples work and the spaces being run. To often artists want opportunities to come their way without themselves showing support.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
Of course my work can be viewed online but In terms of exhibitions I have a couple local things going on soon. This summer I’m working on a public sculpture for The Intersection ran by Andrew Utt located in the Talmadge neighborhood. In September I’m scheduled to be in a group show at the MCASD.
Honestly, the best way someone can help support my work and practice, or any artist for that matter, is to buy work. It’s also nice to get paid commissions and other funded opportunities. A big thing I think that needs to change since I see it as working against artists in the long term is people expecting artists to do things for free or even worse, spend there own money to complete projects when invited to participate. I don’t expect to get rich off what I do, But I do expect to be properly compensated for my time and skills.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.robandrade.com
- Email: robandra@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertandrade00/
- Other: https://randra.bandcamp.com/releases
Image Credit:
Robert Andrade
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