Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 12:54PM 
If you didn't get a chance to see the Express-News write-up about "Insert Clever Title Here and Other New Works" head over the Express-News website and check out the article by Steve Bennett.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at 7:13PM This series "Insert Clever Title Here" and Other New Works by Robert Tatum, is the firstborn child conceived from a life long affair with street art, Hispanic culture, and skate/surf influences, while growing up in South Central Los Angeles.
I begin with abstract backgrounds that are executed without the use of brushes. I intuitively invite the viewer to see a loose, random process of texture by manipulating the paint and causing a slight buildup that allows me to rub and sand down layers that softly appear inside tight areas where I then paint my subject matter boldly. Achieving simplicity is deceptively complex because of the thoughtful, artistic process. (However, I always joke," When I grow up, I want to be a minimalist! ". )
The cloud patterns repeated in this series are inspired by Tibetan Thangka paintings. According to the Tibetans, the natural, choreographic movement of clouds resembles a divine ballet of the heavens. They are amulets of luck, longevity and protection from negative energies.
I also approach each painting with general iconic images from various cultures that have influenced me since childhood. In some way these iconic images inspire a visual feeling of "whimsicalness", much like comfort food that brings a smile of nostalgic contentment. Whether it is religious, spiritual, pop street cultural, or
advertisement graphics, I never know where or when I will go through visual files stored in my mind and integrate these symbols and thoughts into my work. It's always a puzzle to pull and challenge myself to mix it all up and try to make sense of it all. I strive to convey some kind of statement or silly pun that makes a grouchy, bored person laugh. ( or at least raise an eyebrow ).
