What is the best thing that I love about my work?– It’s always changing, but when I have a particularly challenging piece which tests my skills I work hard to trust the process and power through the difficult areas. I am most happy with my works which display a great amount of realism, attention to detail and planning. I’m still learning and always will be, but the pieces that I work the hardest on, make me the most proud.
What is my idea of happiness?-To keep good company, to be able to live life following the things I am most passionate about, to make the most of doing what I love while I’m on this planet and to be the best person I can be. We’re only here for so long. I think it’s best to live a full, happy life and make the most of our time, you never know how long or short that can be. I love being surrounded by animals and nature. That is where I’m the happiest and I hope to use my skills to be able to protect what I love.
What is my greatest fear?-To have regrets about how I spent my time/youth and not living life to the fullest.
What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?-I am a giver, to a fault. I’ve burnt myself out trying to help others and not necessarily helping myself. I’m currently learning to love and stand up for myself. It’s definitely a journey and a work in progress!
Which living persons in my profession do I most admire?-There are many people I look up to- one of the most influential people I’ve been inspired by is Tell Hicks, a renowned wildlife artist and conservationist. His mastery, passion and attention to detail in his work is what I strive to achieve someday.
What is my greatest extravagance?-My aesthetic self-care. Most of my life, I never put much value on beauty, however when I’m well groomed and put together, it makes me feel happy and confident. It doesn’t determine my value, or self worth but it’s a nice treat to have.
On what occasion would I lie?-I try to live life as openly and honestly as I can. Sometimes to be polite you need to lie a little, however I’d hate for anyone’s feelings to be hurt from a lie so I try not to.
What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?-I don’t. I can critique every piece I’ve ever done and find something I could have done better or fixed, but it doesn’t mean I dislike it. It’s just a part of the journey to becoming a better artist. I love looking back on my pieces I’ve done and seeing how much I’ve learned or improved from my previous mistakes.
When and where was I the happiest, in my work?-At my home in 2020 when I had my studio set up right next to a window facing the river. I had a peaceful morning ritual to get ready to draw and watching the sun rise through the trees, the birds at the feeders and the river flowing while I drew was a magical experience. I really lost myself in my work.
If I could, what would I change about myself?-I like who I am as a person. I’m learning to love myself more and that takes some time which is okay. There’s plenty of things I’d like to work on. I’d love to be more assertive, to set boundaries, to prioritize self care and health a bit more again, but I’ll get there.
What is my greatest achievement in work?-This year I have raised over $10,000 in charity donations and one of my fundraiser pieces won the 2021 Copic Award Regional award for North America. I still can’t believe it!
Where would I most like to live?-In a cabin in the woods, next to a river. Somewhere where I’m surrounded by forests and nature.
What is my most treasured possession?-At the moment it would be my hard drive with all my artwork saved on it
What is my most marked characteristic?-Winged liner, my dark hair and usually Black and gray toned clothing.
What is my most inspirational location, in my city?-The Shedd Aquarium, Brookfield Zoo and Lincoln Park Zoo
What is my favorite place to eat and drink in my city?-I haven’t been back since my diet has changed but Giordanos and Lou Malnatis have always been a favorite
What books influenced my life and how?-My entire childhood was filled with books and stories by James Herriot- a country veterinarian in Scotland, Gerald Durrell- a british naturalist and Brian Jaques – an English novelist best known for his book series, Redwall.
You Only Die Once. What music would I listen to on my last day?-Oof, there’s so many songs for that! Probably my favorite playlists which are a mixture of genres. If I had to pick a song, it would probably be Dream Sweet in C Major by Miracle Musical.
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?-I can’t think of anyone off the top of my head. There have been plenty of characters I’ve enjoyed but I can’t seem to think of just one in particular.
Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?-I have so many. Those who follow their passions, people who work to protect the natural world and help those in need, the list can go on. I follow many charities very closely and am amazed by the work some folks do to really make a difference in the lives of animals and humans. There is a UK based charity in Cairo called PFK which offers free care and medical services to the working animals in Cairo, and the work they are doing is absolutely incredible. The zookeepers and conservationists I know work tirelessly to breed endangered species to raise and release in the wild so they don’t go extinct. Rainforest Trust, which empowers Indigenous communities and protects land for conservation and restoring ecosystems. Those are some of my heroes.
Which movie would I recommend to see once in a lifetime?-Our Planet by David Attenborough on Netflix. Everyone needs to see it.
What role do stories play in my life and work?-I love hearing stories of all kinds! My naturalist friends tell me stories of exploration and adventure, my animal friends tell me stories of the lives of the creatures they care for, everyone has a story and I think it’s so fun to learn and discover new things that way.
What do the words ‘You are the storyteller of your own life’ mean to me?You are the maker of your own Destiny- only you can determine what decisions you make and where to go with your life.
Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?My better half, Chris. He is the kindest, most supportive person I could ever ask for in a relationship and encouraged me to follow my path with artwork before I ever realized it was something I could do.
Which people or companies would I like to work with in 2022? I honestly don’t know yet! I’m working with many wonderful people and am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had this year. I’d love to do more conservation and work with zoos in the future.
What project, in 2022, am I looking forward to working on?I can’t say as the projects I have planned are a surprise, but I’m excited for them!
Where can you see me or my work in 2022?You can follow me on social media or my website adelinerobinsonart.com
What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?Animals, haha. I live and breathe for nature and the creatures we share our planet with. It is a passion I was born with and I will follow it until my time is up.
Which creative professionals should Peter invite to tell their story?
Katelyn Cole
Ashley Finch
Sandy Scheller
Sarah Grannis
How can you contact me www.adelinerobinsonart.com
Links to my artwork:
Website: www.adelinrobinsonart.com–
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AdelineRobinsonArt–
Instagram: www.instagram.com/adeline_robinson_art–
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCufEOICaa5TQ4A_QzJCaikg–
The Heroine's Journey 