A very fine artist...
Roger
ROBLES
When did you first think about what you wanted to do as an adult? Were you encouraged or discouraged by family, friends, teachers, mentors?
I met Roger nearly 20 years ago when I lived part-time in Rancho Mirage. He was friends with my wife at the time and came to look at my illustration work for a children’s book. We instantly hit it off as he candidly offered some painting tips to me. It was obvious he knew what he was talking about so I incorporated his suggestions into my work. I still use his techniques to this day.
As with most people, something in childhood clicks showing us a path to follow. I am a firm believer in determinism -- we really don’t have the free-will that we think we do and our future is not in our control. Our subconscious is writing a script and we are trapped as actors to play out the part we’re given. One’s destiny is pre-determined by genetics and all other limitations and advantages. The actor has to perform, the artist has to paint, the writer has to write, and the mountain-climber has to reach the summit. Successful people have aligned themselves with their abilities, their inner voice, and the talent for identifying opportunities. I could do two hours on regrets. With hindsight, I can look back at lost moments that might have changed my life, for better or worse. But I just don’t believe it all could have been any different, we can only play the hand we are dealt. We eventually receive all the things we desire.
Later I visited him in his home in Palm Springs and saw his painting and his incredible photography. It was all brilliant and I realize he was a master at both. We’ve remained friends ever since. “I tried to interview him a few times to no avail. However, I persisted and here we are.” Here’s our interview...
17
