Inspired by shadows, color and pattern, painter Jeanine Robb crafts close-up, intimate and unusual views of still life. “Each summer, I take a traveling art trip to explore new mediums and hone my skills,” says Robb. “I’ve been all over the U.S., Canada and Ireland taking workshops.” Since she began exhibiting and selling her work, the artist has won several “Best in Show” awards for her watercolors and has been published in Sketchbook Magazine, as well as Cloth, Paper, Scissors.  

HLB: Why watercolor? 

JR: I love the challenges they present. Watercolors can have a mind of their own, and I love that unpredictability. I’ve recently expanded into printmaking, using water-based inks and a gelatin plate. Printmaking opens up experimentation, which I like, and has led me to trying other forms including linocut and collagraph. I’ve also been dabbling with digital art.

HLB: When did you discover you were an artist? 

JR: My mom was creative and encouraged me from a young age. I remember each summer starting with new materials, such as a pack of construction paper or colored pencils, and exploring. When I was in high school, my best friend was taking oil painting lessons and that’s when I got into painting. I took a drawing class in college but didn’t pursue art again until I started working and needed a creative outlet.

HLB: How have you dealt with setbacks? 

JR: Once I started putting myself out there, I had to realize that art is subjective and rejection is part of the game. I’ve had to learn to not take it personally and keep doing what I enjoy doing—keep sharing through the various outlets available to me.

HLB: What’s useful about art associations? 

JR: Art-making can be isolating, so having the opportunity to interact with other artists opens you up to new opportunities and keeps you connected.

HLB: What do you love most about Folsom? 

JR: One of my favorite things is how many excellent artists there are—artists who are so generous with their time and experience. I’ve made great friendships with many people whom I get to share creative energy with.

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by Heather L. Becker