Robinson finds beauty in "controlled chaos" through mixed media art
San Jacinto College alumnus Romeo Robinson is an artist whose story is as vivid and textured as his work. Born and raised in New York City, Robinson has journeyed from the Air Force to art galleries, leaving a legacy of creativity and storytelling.
Growing up in New York City, Robinson crossed paths with an artist for the first time — a neighbor who painted, sculpted, and took photos for the public library system.
"He really loved us kids and would allow us to collect bugs for him to photograph," Robinson said. "He would take these gorgeous photographs of insects."
Robinson's artistic journey began in the late 1970s at New York’s Germain School of Photography, which ignited his passion for capturing life through a lens. This passion continued as he served in the Air Force and had access to a photography lab, further developing his creative spark.
After moving to Houston, Robinson pursued new opportunities, earning a paralegal degree from San Jac in the late 1990s. After 34 years at Shell Oil, he also owned and operated a photography studio for many years. In 2012, at 62, he returned to San Jac to pursue an art degree.
"The instructors and the environment at San Jac were incredible," he said. "I felt supported, whether I was studying legal assisting or art. That sense of community really shaped my experience."
North Campus art professor and gallery curator Joe Clark fondly recalls Robinson’s impact on the classroom and beyond.
"Any art teacher would be thrilled to have someone like Romeo in their studio courses,” Clark said. “His curiosity and energy were, and still are, a constant source of inspiration to me and our students. He’s the hardest working and most prolific artist I’ve ever met."
After Robinson discovered his love for painting, his talents blossomed further at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Glassell School of Art, where he completed the Block Program in 2019.
He describes his approach to art as "controlled chaos," delving into the human condition and addressing topics such as racism, immigration, and self-worth.
I find people endlessly fascinating. Their emotions, struggles, and triumphs are fertile ground for an endless amount of creative work. Through my art, I aim to understand what's happening in the world and why.
Mixed media is Robinson's preferred medium. Using acrylics, charcoal, pastel, and collage, he crafts textured, layered works that invite viewers to interpret and connect with the narratives he portrays.
"I'm more interested in what people see in my work than in imposing my own perspective," he said. "Their interpretations often surprise and inspire me."
Robinson preserves and celebrates Houston's rich history, from exhibiting his art at San Jac’s North Gallery to contributing to shows at the Houston Museum of African American Culture, Lawndale Art Center, the University of Houston-Clear Lake, and countless others. Most recently, Robinson exhibited "Echoes in the Crowd" at the North Gallery.
"I love showing my work at the North Campus. It's probably my third show with them now," Robinson said. "I've lived in that community, and many of those kids don't get the opportunity to travel to Houston to see much art. It's a great opportunity to visit with the students, answer their questions, and see what they are working on too."
As a father, grandfather, and artist, Robinson draws profound inspiration from children.
"I'm drawn to their innocence and resilience. In today's digital age, kids face unique challenges with social media and societal pressures," he said. "I try to reflect positivity and hope in my work, especially for young viewers."
With decades of creative exploration behind him, Robinson remains as passionate as ever.
"Art allows me to keep asking questions and exploring ideas," he said. "It's my way of contributing to discussions about the world and the challenges we face."
