Two peas in a pod.
It was at a circus. An overly bedazzled stagehand scuttled by (she will correct me here, she was actually the stage manager) and disappeared behind a towering red velvet curtain.
“She is Art,
It’s not the way she looks
It’s the way she makes you see…” – Philemon Azavedo
The show was Moulin Rouge and has since closed but our friendship continues to play to audiences worldwide. Her frenetic incessant chatter, blind stubbornness, and general disregard for time give her a unique edge over some of my more grounded acquaintances. Robyn and I have shared a 10-year friendship that has transformed my life and given me a new perspective on what is possible. For example, my tolerance for unsolicited critique has gone WAY up.
We shared an art studio until her move back to Canada, and via 100’s of zoom calls, she has been an intrinsic part of the Learning to See Course since its inception. Early on we discovered that our outlook and thought processes are eerily similar. This has led to some inspired shows, powerful discussions, and a lot of personal growth (mostly hers).
Gabriel Mark Lipper – Robyn – 48″x48″- oil on panel
My only memory of Gabe at the circus comes from his exuberant recollection. He hadn’t made much of an impression. I don’t remember his attire being notably bedazzled.
In my first memory, a gregarious, curly-haired man unexpectedly threw open the door to the studio I shared with a girlfriend. We were doing some mid-day exercises and Gabe, with little regard for the unextended invite, immediately joined in. From here he hijacked the whole operation and lured us to his studio with the promise of “excellent” floor mats (how could we say no). For the next 6 years, he would religiously attend and fervently windge about our exercises.
Throughout the decade of our friendship, Gabe fastidiously shows up in all capacities. Wise and quick-witted, he is the physical embodiment of the devil’s advocate (without the imposing body or evil motivations.) It vexes me how many times that hell-bound little helper has insights I can’t dismiss.
Friendships like this are what we need to keep us questioning, learning, laughing, and proving time and again that we are better than they are. I mean.. with them as our friends.
Our Art improves when it is analyzed and discussed, argued for, and dismantled. When we are guided and encouraged and our friends’ success brings us as much pride as our own. Neither of us would be here sharing with you without the others’ quick quips, whips, and lashes. Neither would have strived so far without the others’ support.
In the right company, you will be willing to reach into the uncomfortable and build dreams one brushstroke at a time. The richness of following your individual path knowing your allies have your back may just be as inspiring as the work itself. When you join a community of creatives, every part of you and your art will be elevated… occasionally insulted, infrequently annoyed, and always inspired.
Disclaimer:
No feelings were hurt during the making of this post. In fact, it was co-written Wednesday afternoon sitting side by side (zoom). My side still hurts. It could have been the laughter or the stabbing wit.
Listen for Robyn’s new podcast FERAL ART on February 2nd! Keep your ears peeled for more.
