Rob Foote

Above: Burrow Bloom

“No one can see how long an artwork took to paint – so I take my time.”

I’ve always felt like an artist. From the sketches that filled my childhood notebooks to my Fine Art degree in Durban, South Africa, in 1997, my path has been a continuous cycle of obstacle, effort, and achievement.

My creative journey has been anything but linear. I’ve spent years exploring diverse fields, from the physical weight of bronze casting and the grand scale of film set building to the meticulous world of film concept art and book illustration. Recently, I’ve come full circle, returning to the tactile beauty of traditional work – specifically charcoal drawing and oil painting. I love these mediums for their fluid, effortless blending, and I’m a firm believer in the “magic” of an electric eraser to bring the light back to a piece.

Themes & Inspiration

I am deeply inspired by nature and our human connection to the wilder side of the world. Animals are a constant in my work; beyond their inherent beauty, they possess incredible narrative symbolism and represent a commonality shared by all humans, regardless of background.

I love that I am bringing something positive into the world – creating a single thing that can say something unique to each person as they add their own interpretation to the work. I love that I have a voice, a way of speaking that can have an impact.

My work sits on the cusp of illustration and fine art, influenced by the incredible base of artists like JB Monge and Frédéric Pillot. I also look to Van Gogh, who is a good example for me of perseverance despite lack of success, and a reminder of the power of a resolute, independent voice.

Global Reach & Current Projects

It is still a wonder to me that I can be paid to do what I love. My work has found homes in England, America, South Africa, Australia, and Argentina. I also wrote and illustrated a book: ‘Samples from the Lab’ which was a finalist for the NZ Book Awards.

Currently in the studio

Mount Aspiring Art Awards: Polishing a final piece for the upcoming exhibition.

Public Art: Beginning a new 25 x 4 metre mural project next month.

Spare time

When I’m not in my old villa studio with my family and dog, you’ll likely find me listening to history podcasts like The Anarchy or sketching new ideas. My goal is simple: to keep making work that gets better every day and to share something positive that speaks uniquely to everyone who sees it.

I advise artists, who haven’t experienced this yet, to keep your brush cleaning liquid and your coffee far apart.

See more about Rob here: www.robfoote.net