- Robert B. Spencer
- Struggle, 1986
- woodcut print
- 32 x 17.5 in
- Signature: signed and dated on lower left
The rationale of my work, either individually or collectively, is to stimulate both spiritual and emotional chords. Upon viewing my work, one should find the relationship we share to be symbiotic in nature. When speaking of the spiritual forces represented in my work, I feel that it is more than the provincial thought of God and celestial entities. Though it does not exclude that, I use the term spiritual to reference a more general view as I believe that all things and events have somewhat of a spirit.
I consider my work to be expressionistic, though it is in part abstracted in order to permit the viewer an opportunity for interaction. Oftentimes, I place considerable emphasis on the isolated and exaggerated figure so that it becomes both real and symbolic. This approach allows me to speak to a broader audience about emotions and spirituality. The use of the elongated and exaggerated features is meant to suggest a sense of strength and earthiness. While the figure itself usually represents the nucleus of the attention, the space around the figure also evolves into a spiritual entity.
- Collections: South Carolina Arts Commission State Art Collection