With acrylic paint as his primary medium, and an eye for color palettes, Larry Roberts’ paintings evoke raw, visceral images—drawing from the subconscious, darkness, and light, his body of work is filled with color, movement, and energy. Larry’s natural talent for abstract, figurative, expressionism, and impressionism art forms gained him recognition across North America and beyond. Regrettably, his career would be cut short, and in August of 2019, Larry would lose his battle with leukemia. The ArtVancouver Art Fair, earlier that year, would be his final exhibition.
Laurie Roberts (center) with guests at art event
Larry had two passions in life, his art, and the once-in-a-lifetime love with his wife, Laurie Roberts. Through Larry Roberts Chicago and The Larry and Laurie Roberts Foundation for the Arts (NFP), Laurie is continuing his dream and legacy by sharing his passion for art, and the artist community, as well as encouraging others to pursue their creative expression.
Although the world will no longer be able to experience new works by this immensely talented artist, his art is being given new life through innovative and creative reproductions. In new and breathtaking mediums, Larry’s body of work will be experienced and viewed by a greater audience. As such, Larry Roberts Chicago has announced its latest endeavor, the recent launch of the Larry Roberts Chicago Rug Collection on September 22, 2022.
The rugs, derived from the original works of art by Larry, are trademarked designs, hand-tufted, hand-knotted, and from an accredited GreenGuard Gold Certified manufacturer. They are truly an art unto themselves.
The first prototyped rug, “LaFemme,” is derived from an untitled acrylic/ink painting selected for its serene hues of teal and green which was the inspiration behind the creation of this collection. The expertly handcrafted rugs capture the transformation that occurs with the shift of light, from day to night. Like the art, the rugs are reborn with new details.
Laurie states, “Larry was a colorist, visionary, and most importantly, the love of my life. His unwavering passion for creating and encouraging others gives me the strength to continue his legacy. It’s my honor to share this gift with the world.”
Larry Roberts Chicago’s main objectives are to share the talented work of the late Larry Roberts in hopes of inspiring others and supporting the foundation.
The mission of the Larry and Laurie Roberts Foundation for the Arts is to give back in ways that elevate the community through creativity, compassion, and a deeper understanding of not only others but oneself. The foundation achieves this by bringing together people from all socioeconomic backgrounds, religions, races, and gender identities to create art. Their goal is to encourage learning to help people understand, not just accept, but appreciate our differences through the arts.
Artist Larry Roberts
Photos: Heather Baigelman
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