By Abbey Cannan
Noosa Arts Theatre’s Robert Boesch is swapping the stage for a studio, encouraging others to get creative as he returns to his artistic roots.
The former graphic designer has been treading the boards for 34 years, starring in roles for Sutherland Theatre Company and Cronulla Arts Theatre, and most recently appearing at Noosa Arts in the One Act Plays Festival and Food for Thought.
Robert volunteers on the theatre’s committee, painting sets with the theatre’s men’s group, and now he’s combining his two loves while taking those painting skills to a new level.
Robert has entered the Brisbane Art Prize, Mosman Art Prize, and Paddington Art Prize with a landscape painting of the Noosa River.
“My wife Deb and I moved to Noosa three and a half years ago after holidaying here for all of our married life,“ Robert said.
“Noosa was always a haven for us, the only place that would demand you relax immediately from the stresses of work and the world.
“I painted the river because water has the ability to soothe and heal. Most mornings I walk along the river’s banks with Deb and it’s the perfect start to the day.
“It’s always different, I particularly loved the sky this morning and wanted to remember the feeling so a painting was the obvious choice.“
His landscape painting took about four weeks to complete.
“There are at least four layers in the final picture and my medium of choice is oils because you can build up to the effect you want,“ he said.
“Painting is one way I know I can freely say what I feel in the most recognisable way.“
Robert believes a picture paints a thousand words.
“I’ve been to a few of the major art galleries of the world, both here and overseas,“ he said.
“One of my favourite paintings is The Potato Eaters by Vincent Van Gogh. I remember standing in front of this in Amsterdam being humbled by its honesty and passion and compassion. Here was Vincent, struggling with his own demons, making the world aware of the poverty of people arguably worse off than he was, but doing it with love and respect.“
He believes painting has the power to reflect and change the perception of people.
“People who have that creative streak usually try different things, whether it’s painting, sculpture, ceramics, theatre, film or whatever until they land on the thing that makes them happiest,“ Robert said.
“Let’s face it, why do anything if there isn’t the reward of happiness in the end? You might have setbacks in the process, but at the end of the day if it doesn’t plant a big smile on your face what’s the point? Added bonus is it makes other people happy.“
After retiring and reconnecting with his love for painting, Robert said he would like to be known as a fine artist.
“I’ve had two group exhibitions of my earlier works over 30 years ago, some sold some didn’t,“ he said.
“I’m just starting to paint again and loving it, so who knows, maybe in six months time I may have enough works for another exhibition! Watch this space.“
