Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

Q+A:

Artist Robert Beckmann: ‘It’s beginning to work!’

13.13.13

Courtesy

Robert Beckmann

Robert Beckmann gallery

This is one of five 15-inch by 20-inch oil paintings created by Robert Beckmann of various views of the Las Vegas Wash in the aftermath of a devastating flood on July 8, 1999. These new paintings are part of Robert Beckmann: Elemental Landscape, opening to the public at the Springs Preserve on Oct. 16. Launch slideshow »

For 13 days, starting today, we wrap up 2013 by asking 13 prominent Nevada personalities — including entertainers, entrepreneurs, politicians and athletes — 13 fun questions that, you guessed it, have to be answered in 13 or fewer words. You’ll find that 13 words can be laced with profound philosophies and clever humor. Enjoy!

Robert Beckmann, artist, Beckmann Studio

What person, living or dead, do you admire most?

The Abe Lincoln of William Carlos Williams' "In The American Grain."

What is the quality you like best about a person?

A capacity to really listen — with curiosity and compassion.

What are you currently reading?

"A Great Aridness" by William deBuys. A compelling wake-up call.

How do you prefer to get your news and literature: digital or hard copy?

Hard copy.

What is your most recognizable characteristic?

My glasses.

Which words or phrases do you overuse?

My studio assistants laugh when I say, "It's beginning to work!"

What makes you happy?

Sunlight.

What is your most prized possession?

A figurative sculpture from the Mama tribe, Benue River area, Nigeria.

What is your most embarrassing moment as a prominent figure?

Canceling my recent solo show in ArtSquare before its completion date.

If you could make up the Nevada state motto, what would it be?

Water, water, water, permission and light.

What is your greatest accomplishment in 2013?

New directions for my art: environmental ("Under Water" and "Car Wash") and new abstractions.

Any regrets this past year?

No regrets. Lewis' Woodpecker, a Rough-legged Hawk, a Hooded Merganser! Ah!

What is your top priority moving into 2014?

Raising consciousness of "global weirding" and the Southwest's cycle of drought and flooding.

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