Newspapers / The Charlotte Post (Charlotte, … / Feb. 21, 1985, edition 1 / Page 21
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OPiy hibits Attract “Large Crowds” By Jalyne Strong Post Staff Writer He’s one of Charlotte’s most successful artiste. IBs works command prices of $5,000 or more, and no one makes a fuss about paying for them. His showings always attract large crowds. Prominent Charlotte physicians were the first major collectors of his art, though, they now must compete with major corporations such as NCNB for the prized pictures. He has toured the entire South But Tommy Robinson, pretty much remains unaffected by it all. People who know him say he’s quiet and serious then at times funny and boister ous. "He’s good people,” T.J. Reddy, owner of Ready Art Shoppe, describes. But for many people who do not know him well, he remains an enigma. U-.' k The studio is large and airy with windows lining one wall letting in plenty of light. Robinson’s drawing table is placed in front of the windows. _ He is currently working on a sketch of Margaret Freeman, a Charlotte based actress and director. Though the picture is two dimensional, the subjects, Freeman and a young boy, appear very lifelike; the essence of all Robinson’s pictures. Throughout tbe room are easels, palettes and sheet shrouded finished paintings, some as large as five feet high. Most of these intensely colorful paintings are from a new series Robinson is working on. “I’m getting into surrealism,’’ he informs. Robinson is lucky, he has reached the pinnacle of achievement in his home town. This means, unlike many other visual artists, he can sustain himself financially on his artwork alone. He says, “I ve been an artist for twelve years. It’s a part of me I can’t help from doing. I done other things but I've always came back to art This is what I’m suppose to do." “But there is a lot of talent (artistic) in North Carolina,” be continues. “Unfortunately, the state hasn’t utilized its Mack talent. In fact it’s oppressed it and several people with ability have had to leave. “I don’t think a person should have to leave a particular, location to make it," claims Robinson, “I’m stubborn and I had enough confidence to stay here and fight.” When you ask about lack of support for black artists in this State you touch a nerve with Robinson. "Black 'artists ate not supported in North Carolina,” he assures. “Blacks aren’t included in the Guild of Charlotte Artists. They’ve been excluded from the Mint Museum. (Since opening in 1948 the Mint Museum has only show-cased one black artist, Romare Bearden, to date.) The Charlotte Arts and Science Council does not give much aid to black Arts. To my knowledge the N.C. Arts Coimdl hasn't awarded any grants to Mack or minority artists and blacks have been excluded from showings. Many of these organiza tions are supported by bond issues blacks have voted for. Blacks pay more taxes than anyone. But they are not benefitting from them,” Robinson assures. How does the 37-year old Robinson cope with this situation? "Perfection,” he claims. The only way to prove yourself is through superiority. By really con centrating on my work I will not give them the excuse to exclude me. “And I’m also being more vocal, letting them know that I know what's going on. I’m pushing for Blacks to form advocacy groups. We need to contact these Art support systems and demand what we want to see and bear in music productions,theater, visual art. We doo’t think we’re suppose to participate in these type of things but it is our money which these organiztions use. We have to receive our fair share,” be concludes. Robinson reflects that he does receive much support See ReMnsoa On Page 8B Subscribe To The Post 376-0496 A "Head Your Holy Bible ^ And Prav to God Everyday" : 40% OFF On Dry Cleaning Only. Silk Not Included Mon., Tnes., Wed.. Tkura. 20 Percent Off On Frl. Ik Sat. • Oiler expire. February K, IMS • I Coupon Must Accompany Order 1 ^Kxprrt MrratlonH eeaeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeoe.ee ^eeeeeeeeeoeeeeeeeeetir Work S4lur<layN Tow I r ant a • ... • icon JnHMBHvufT r: - T.’nTvZT. m 8_ i'.f Tommy Robinson ....Successful artist WAI—1C The. customers you miss because your ad doesn't appear in our Classified Section may be injurious to your business. \f ¥ If You Wont To Know What's Happening In The Black Community, Read The Charlotte Post Each Week! Morehead Licensed Medical OB-GYN ^ Specialist Center Worried About Being Pregnant ? We Care. • Kree Pregnancy Testing Daily ommmn mm mm - <no appointment necessary» i I • Abortion J • Birth Control ; • Sexuality Counseling il° - 334 *132 . 5 3 All Call* Strictly 1 -,,-T- -T Confidential 1351 Durwood Drive Mon.-Kri. H-«; Sat. K-2 ....Its not just men, 1— 24 of all i problem drinkers are
The Charlotte Post (Charlotte, N.C.)
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Feb. 21, 1985, edition 1
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