MEMORIES
Memory from Paul Swenbeck
Rob taught me everything vital that I needed to know about painting.
I celebrated a lot of firsts working alongside Rob Moore in the studios at MassArt from 1989-91. His mentorship was an experience that has lingered with me and was reignited when I had a chance to teach in recent years. He cared so much. Rob was the person that first introduced me to what it might feel like to be an artist outside the bubble of art school. I felt pretty fancy when he brought us out for lunch with a visiting lecturer to the MFA restaurant; this was my first glimpse into a world of elevated conversation that might lead to a continued lifestyle focused on splendor and richly fascinating people. I had confidence, but he kept me in check citing my "cavalier" attitude. Those that knew Rob will be able to hear this word spoken clearly in their heads with his charming southern drawl.
Later, when I had an exhibition at the Thompson gallery at the Longwood Building, Rob visited and declared "You are an artist." This statement may seem like a simple observation, but really it felt like he granted me a license to be my true self in art. I have not looked back since.