Today we’d like to introduce you to Robin Monique Rios.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I grew up on the Southwest side of Chicago. As far as I can remember I have always been creative. It was the one thing that made me feel a sort of peace inside. Growing up I was met with many challenges. I struggled in school, realizing much later in life that I had dyslexia. I developed a bone disease when I was nine, among other health issues which forced me to slow down from a lot of outdoor activities that I loved such as biking and skateboarding. After High school I went straight to working as a front desk clerk at a hotel by O’Hare. It was challenging but after a few years I managed to move up to a manager.
I didn’t do a lot of creating during this time, in my twenties other than clubbing, drinking and frankly just trying to survive life. It wasn’t long until the art started to call out to me. After many bouts of deep depression, I realized that this wasn’t my life I was living. One day I came home from work, at this point at the edge of my own sanity and was stuck by a commercial for the Illinois Institute of Art Chicago. It was as if the TV light up and the spirits were showing me that this would be my next path. And I took it! I never thought in a million years that I would go to college, as I barely made it through high school. I not only go into the school but I graduated with a 3.6 GPA. I had never saw so many A’s and B’s. I’m sure it doesn’t mean much for most, but for me it meant the world. I never felt proud of myself until the day I walked into that school.
I delved head first with an enthusiasm I didn’t know I could possess. My passion for the arts grew ever stronger and I just couldn’t get enough of it. I graduated in June of 2003 and in September 2003 I was opening a gallery in Pilsen, 4Art Inc Gallery. I started 2nd Fridays there. I met so many thought provoking artists and worked hard not just for myself but for my artists and all the artists in the community. We had an Awesome run there, which was named Chicago Arts District by the owner of the property. I work for six years alongside the management and the other artists to make our art district the top destination in the city. In 2009 I was forced to move by inflating rent, etc. Not knowing my next step, I was asked to move to the Zhou B Art Center. I happily accepted and have been here for eight years. 2015 I closed the business, though keeping 4Art Space and creating a collective group so that I can just be one of the artists.
Please tell us about your art.
I am a mixed media artist, though I am most known for my Digital Photography work, i.e. a series called the Observation Series. I stated this series in 2004 when digital art was only just starting to be discussed as an art form. Hell, there wasn’t even a tick box on a submission form for was I was doing back then. I was never afraid to try new things and I was always eager to learn and experiment with every art medium I could put my hands on. So, I do everything, photography specifically nature and decrepit architecture, acrylic and mixed media painting, sculpture and the list goes on and on. Over the years I have mentored, not only artists but the public about the importance of fine art. I tell my artist that it is important to remember that we are not here to merely sell art, we are here to leave a legacy behind. I believe that with my whole heart. I was given a gift that I have not squandered. I give of myself through my art and I give of myself by paying it forward to anyone who needs the support. I have never charge one person for my advice and I have always been 100% honest. I have been to many: mentor, friend, a shoulder to cry on and one to offer inspiration when for those who were unable to find any. My passion for art is what saves my life every day and it will proceed me when I am long gone from this life. For that I am truly blessed.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
There are two sides of the coin there is the fine art and then there is the decorative art. It’s a fine line but if an artist can make extra cash by creating some quick easy decorative pieces that are both budget friendly and cater to a wider audience. I have also done graphic and web design and framing over the years to make ends meet. I say do what you feel is not so stressful for you to do on the side so that is don’t put any kinks in your more passionate work.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I am located on the 4th Floor of the Zhou B Art Center, I share my studio, 4Art Space, with about a dozen other diverse artists. Where we display our art and participate in the 3rd Friday Open Studio’s from 7pm-10pm.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1029 W. 35th Street, #403, Chicago, IL 60609
- Website: www.robinmoniquerios.com
- Phone: 773-254-5100
- Email: info@robinmoniquerios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinmoniquerios/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinmoniqueriosart/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/robinmrios
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/RobinMoniqueRiosArt
Image Credit:
I photographed and created everything I have uploaded to you except the self portrait image. It was shot by a friend of mine in Portland, Or his name is Tith Sin.
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
