Robert Mann is an artist based in the United States whose works have been exhibited nationally. He cites the main intention of his artistic practice as being the creation of a sense of space, referring to his pieces as “Spacious Art.” Mann’s hope is to make “a little gap, or space in one’s mind, even just for a moment.” His preferred mediums are acrylics, India ink, and gilding on canvas.
When did you know you wanted to be an artist?
This is a tough question, as I don’t think I ever made a choice to be an artist. For as long as I can remember I just wanted to create things. I paint what I see in the world and it has always felt natural to me. All people are called to different things, I was always pulled to create and build. I don’t know how to exist differently.
Can you talk about your artistic influences and other artists you are most inspired by?
I grew up listening to jazz and soul music, Miles Davis, Al Green, and Chet Baker. I love music, but I gravitate towards visual arts. I found myself trying to create the balance of jazz in my visuals. Starting with a simple form, then combined with improv. Structure met with free form.
Do you prefer to work alone or collaborate with others?
I have been a filmmaker for the majority of my adulthood, which is a fantastic form of collaboration. Creating on my own has been a deeply enriching and profound experience. Breaking through barriers independently has been very rewarding. Both are lovely in their own way, having a balance of the two has been my path.
Can you tell us about a project you’re currently working on?
I’m presently working on the largest piece I’ve ever made. I’m excited about exploring my abilities to create the same feeling in a piece, large or small. Having something spacious, while full and rich is my present task.
What do you think you would be doing if you weren’t an artist?
Art is only a simple branch of what is important to me. If art was taken away from me magically, I’d still find a way to create. Art is a way of sharing through self-expression, finding a way to connect to yourself and others. So I’d likely find something to help others in some capacity. Be a fireman perhaps?
Have you found any other artists on SINGULART whose work you admire?
I have so much fun viewing different artists on SINGULART. I have a couple people who inspire me for sure, but genuinely, I feel the work presented on this gallery across the board has so much merit.
I really love Jennifer Asher’s sculptures, she uses space in a way I put forth in my pieces. And I absolutely love Eduardo Landa’s work. Beautiful.
What advice could you give to young artists starting out?
Love what you do. Otherwise, what’s the point?
Be kind to yourself during your process. Every day we learn something new from our hard work. I’ve definitely learned more from what not to do than what just came naturally.
