Geometric Abstraction

Geometric Abstraction

A form of abstract art based on the use of geometric forms placed in space and combined into non-objective compositions. Although this sub-genre was first popularized by early 20^th century avant-garde artists, it has been seen in art since ancient times (e.g., Classical Greek art, Islamic mosques, etc).

It is in this genre that Robert immersed himself in subject matter and painted with heightened intensity. It is speculated that because of his 60-year career in banking and finance, with continuous concentration on mathematical calculations, a focus on geometric shapes emerges on canvas and paper. (However, this speculation is not to suggest that fifth century B.C. Greek artists were also bankers.) It is further speculated that Robert’s “mathematical mind” may have drawn him more toward abstraction, and especially geometric abstraction, than toward depicting landscapes, still-life or other art forms.