Local folk artist Robert E Smith has passed away. I’ve met Robert a few times and he was always surrounded by adoring fans. I first heard about his passing when Aaron J Scott tweeted it and it looks like only KY3 picked up on it today. Here is their story – Springfield artist Robert E. Smith is not just remembered but is unforgettable
My first introduction to his art are the downtown murals, including the one pictured which is at Campbell and Walnut. A search turns up plenty of information on Robert, including this short bio from what appears to be a locally produced blog
Robert E. Smith is a nationally known folk and “outsider” artist. His paintings have been featured at New York City’s prestigious Museum of American Folk Art and sold at distinguished galleries coast-to-coast. He has also been featured in The Museum of American Folk Art Encyclopedia of Twentieth Century American Folk Art. His unique visions, brimming with color, humor and incident, represent a triumph of the imagination over a strenuous and difficult life. Bibliography and great photos on Detour Art.
I was glad to see they had the film info on Robert, who was featured in “To and From”, the third of three Christmas movies created by Brandon Goodwin and Nate Black. The film includes Jeff Jenkins, Jeff Houghton and Sarah Jenkins from The Skinny Improv among others. That’s Robert in the Santa outfit, in case you were uncertain.
Somewhere down the road there will also be a film documentary, produced by Cina Canada, The Human Picture Initiative.
UPDATE – KSPR33 offered a story that includes an interview with Brandon Goodwin on his work with Robert E Smith.
Springfield, MO Artist Passes Away Leaving Many Memories Behind
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