Meet Robson Stannard

We speak to Robson Stannard, a young British artist, about the inspiration behind the artwork that adorns the walls of our bar, Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese.

• Tell us about a day in the life of Robson Stannard

A day in my life typically starts with a strong coffee to wake me up and planning my schedule for the day. I then get out my paints and papers and begin to scroll through Instagram looking at any saved posts I have for colour combinations I like. These typically then inform the direction of my work. 

• What’s something surprising about your artistic process, that other people might not realise?

I work instinctively, I never plan my paintings.

• Can you share how you got here?

I had always had a strong interest in the creative world, excelling at art-based subjects throughout education. I then opted to do a foundation degree for a year to decide which path I wanted to go down. This informed my decision to study Fashion Illustration at London College of Fashion (UAL). Throughout my degree I experimented until I found my signature style in my third year. Upon graduating I was included in a round-up of the top 10 art school graduates across the globe via Varoom! Magazine, which led to commissions from GQ, Wonderland and regularly contributing with Nick Knight’s SHOWstudio. 

• What’s your proudest moment so far?

My proudest moment so far would be the Velvet bar commission; it's a dream come true to work with an interior design company and have both visions come to life.

• What was your inspiration behind the artwork that you created for Velvet?

I wanted to explore contrasting colours and evoke a sense of fun through a playful palette.

• Who is your favourite artist right now?

Cecilia Carlstedt. I love her use of colour texture and collage within her works. She has an eye for negative space and creating a sense of depth within her pieces.

• What do you think about the art offering London has?

I think the art London has is world-renowned and always being pushed into new realms by emerging talent.

• How do you think social media has affected the world of art?

It has meant the world of art is far more accessible to the average consumer who might have not engaged with it previously.

• What are your thoughts on NFTs in the art world?

NFTs are a concept that still baffles me, in a good way.

• What advice would you give someone who wants to be an artist, but does not know where to start?

Continue to pursue avenues of art that you enjoy and keep plugging away at it. Learn as much as you can and try to take feedback on board in a positive way.