Artist Focus: Robert Forte

The role of commentary through art has been a dominant theme in the work of painter Robert Forte. “Art as a forum for the expression of ideas, opinions, protests and social commentary has a long and prestigious history,” says Forte, adding that great artists such as Goya, Picasso and Daumier immediately come to mind. “Works that were widely disseminated could and did function as catalysts for social change. For many years I have painted images that concerned ‘hot topics’—global warming, ethnic diversity, denial of due process, political demagoguery…The problem of giving substance to a range of complex ideas has resulted in the development of what I consider to be a unique style: stark images, simplification of forms, and expressive use of color.Waterfalls, oil on canvas, 40 x 30"

Sunflowers, oil on canvas, 40 x 30"

Forte paints in oils primarily because “they provide a luminosity that heightens the underlying emotional concept”, but also works with oil pastels and acrylics.

Whatever he is painting, the inspiration runs deep. “Without that, I would not be able to continue because so much of the imagery is drawn from imagination.” Forte’s work continues to evolve and has found that his style can be applied to landscapes. “The shift to landscape lessens the tension generated by conceptual figurative art,” he says. “Painting nature is a challenge in so many ways, but it can also be too literal. I strive for a middle ground between realism and abstraction. I am drawn to the power and color of nature, and leave the rest to the camera.” —