I love pets. I grew up with pets. We had generations of dogs named Waldo and Ginger,” shares Robert “Robby” Vincent Venus Singh, a Philippine-based artist who specializes in murals, pet portraits, and illustrations. “I’m sure so many people can relate to this. Pets are very personal; they are very much like people, having their own quirks and personalities. If people have their portraits hanging on their walls at home, I thought, why not pets too since they are part of the family?”
Robby’s creativity was apparent even as a child, as he would rummage through his mom’s junk to discover interesting items that he could transform into art.
Educated at the University of Santo Tomas, he graduated with a degree in fine arts, majoring in advertising.
While living in Vietnam in 2007, his father asked Robby to paint him a mural; thus began a whole new passion for the artist, and a realization that this was something he could do for a living.
His artistic vocation was further developed when his cousin, Bambi Mañosa-Tanjutco, invited him to be part of her art school, Creative Kids Studio in Alabang. The experience prompted Robby to become an art teacher for kids on a regular basis, and has become the main source and inspiration for Robby’s art. His love for kids is reflected in his illustrations and paintings, where he always uses bright, happy colors and themes.
Robby also volunteers his time to conduct art outreach workshops with U! Happy Events, a company that organizes events for kids who need special attention, such as cancer patients, orphans and abused kids.
Today, Robby is doing a series of commissioned paintings for pet lovers aptly titled “Petraits,” or Pet Portraits, where he captures the likeness and personality of each furry loved one at their happiest moment.
PHILIPPINE STAR: What is the hardest pet you’ve ever had to illustrate?
ROBERT SINGH: Every pet is actually challenging to paint. There’s always a thin line between it looking realistic and looking like a cartoon. Some breeds tend to look the same, unless you observe closely and notice there are significant characteristics from one pet to the other. However, the most challenging pet I had to paint was an English Bulldog. Every fold on the face and sag of the eyes and mouth had to be there while making sure it looked cute and not scary.
Have you ever rejected a request for a pet portrait?
I’ve never rejected any. Petraits bring joy to people. And that’s one of my objectives, why I paint petraits.
Do you have pets?
I used to, but all have gone to pet heaven due to old age. Last one I had was Harry, half Toy Poodle and half Terrier — he was 14 years old. Had him untill last February of this year, right when I just moved out of the house. He was the cutest.
How do you make the personality of the pets come out in your portraits?
First, just like any pet, they too have their owners, a.k.a. “their super-supportive and loving parents,” who just love their pets so much that they are the only ones who see their pets’ quirks, moods, likes and dislikes. You know how it’s like how moms describe their child to others through a picture and they get so excited, with matching actions and change of voice? Like that! It is through them I learn more about the subject I’m about to paint. When I finally sit down and look at the picture closely, part by part, that’s when I notice little things, like a smirk, a twitch in the eye or a small fold on the nose … that’s when I realize what exactly makes the pet have personality.
You teach kids, too? Do you think there is a similarity between pets and kids?
Yes, I do. I've been teaching for at least four years. It’s a gift. This question has never crossed my mind, honestly. However, they are the same in the way that they bring out the gentleness and nurturing nature of every adult. They encourage us adults to strive to be the best parents, teaching them good values and principles. Making sure they are safe, they don’t get sick, they eat well and even dress well. They bring comfort and joy to us, too. But to paint them, that’s a totally different story (LOL).
What is your dream pet?
I want a peacock. Obviously, as an artist, I love color! A peacock has it all! Aside from its amazing vibrant metallic fantail, a peacock is quite personal to me. It is the national bird of India, and I am part Indian. It’s a symbol of integrity, which is important in my art.
However, I could settle for a Labrador Retriever. I grew up with one, and they are the most affectionate dogs and they happen to be very good with children, too.
Is it easier to draw pets than humans?
Not really. Each has its own challenges.
Is it hard to do a mural?
Yes. There are a lot of factors to consider: Place — if it is conducive to working. I’ve had projects before where I had to paint in a construction site. The heat, the dust and the fumes slow me down. Size of the wall — especially when the wall is too high, going up the ladder and down takes so much of your time and energy. Plus, it adds to the risks of accidents happening. Time frame —I’ve experienced having a lot of clients who want things done fast. Always rushing, but want the quality to still be there. You can’t really avoid it, that’s how fast-paced the world is. You just have to go with it. My mood — inspiration is my fuel. If I don’t have a dose of it, anything I touch turns to rubbish. I’m sure a lot of artists can relate to that. But then again, you can’t be too much of an artist in this business. There has to be balance. It’s a matter of training your mind to separate work from “the artist-ness” getting in the way. Good thing I’m able to master that when painting murals. I’ve been painting murals since 2007. My works are mostly found in public spaces and residences.
What advice would you give people who want to do illustrations of pets?
When painting pets, keep it fun and always pick the most challenging ones to paint. The more challenging it is, the more techniques you learn. Keep practicing to stay in shape.
It is important know your passion. This is fuel in achieving your goal. Remember that this is art, and in art there are no mistakes. As I always tell my students, your art doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be clear. Continue to thirst for new styles and techniques so that you are not stuck to one kind. Always stay interested and interesting. Expose yourself to different kinds of art to get inspiration. When people do notice how good you are, remember not to let it go to your head; instead be grateful and thank them. Always show gratitude. Remember to share your knowledge with others. The more you share, the more you make way for blessings to come in.
I am very active in my Instagram and my Facebook fan page. I use these as my way to share my knowledge and new discoveries. I would love to have you guys follow me and share joy with others, through my art.
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For inquiries, email Robby at robbyvsingh@gmail.com; follow Robby on Instagram: robbysinghart; Facebook fan page: Robby Singh ART or visit his website : www.robbysinghart.ml.