Local artist makes debut at 71
12 a.m. Thursday, February 22, 2007
"It's just chalk. It's chalk on black paper," artist Robert Reed said on a recent day when he was recognized for outstanding contributions to the state.
It maybe just chalk on paper, but the rainbow of colors and fine lines define a myriad of faces.
"I love people. I love people," Reed said.
Reed says he particularly loves to paint women, whether it's a woman with a flirtatious eye, showing motherly love, or deep in prayer.
The 71-year-old began painting when he was 5 years old in Topeka. Along with chalk, Reed paints with watercolor, oil, and charcoal. One might think he's taken art classes for years. But he's never taken a class. Reed is self- taught.
His work is currently on display in the Capitol Rotunda.
Robert Reed Art Exhibition
Reed's works will on display in the Capitol Rotunda through the end of February, in honor of Black History Month.
For more information about Mr. Reed’s work, log onto africanartwholesale.com.
"I never had an art show. This is my first art show," he said. "I have walked by this place. I rode by it, but I never -- this is the first time I've been inside of it."
Just glancing at Reed's work, you would never know he could barely see when he painted most of the art on display.
"I had cataracts. My right eye was real bad from cataracts. Right now I see pretty good," he said. "I got implants in both eyes. But now I do better art work, now that I can see."
Reed paints every day.
"Everyday. Not a day goes by that I don't do, pick up some kind of paint. My hand is hurting by arthritis, but I keep on going at it," he said.
Reed enjoys his hobby, because it helps to smooth out the rough spots in his life.
"It relaxes me when I'm worried about anything."
Reed is excited about his work on display at the Capitol. He says it's a dream come true.
His advice for the young and young at heart is "if you have a dream, no matter what it is, keep at it, keep going at it. Be the best you can. No matter what. Be the best you can."
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