Wānaka artist Robin Brisker has lived around the world but it’s creating art where he feels most at home. 

“I was born in Chicago but grew up in multiple locations including New York, Boston, Connecticut, Oregon and California and attended 12 different schools in 12 years. It taught me how to adapt to any situation and how to entertain myself with my own thoughts and company.”

“However, it wasn’t until I moved to Paris in 1976 that my artistic side was nurtured. My creativity exploded with the daily inspiration of walking along the Parisian streets, being immersed by historical buildings, seeing numerous impressionist pieces in local galleries and being surrounded by the French language. I also started juggling in the streets of Paris and this skill gave me the freedom to travel anywhere while still supporting myself to create art.”

Since then Robin has established a strong artistic career with his signature style that stretches from Braque and Picasso’s cubist influence to the whimsical feel of groundbreaking modernist artists Alexander Calder and Paul Klee. 

“I am not an artist that needs to look at anything to paint it. I prefer to try and create something that hasn’t been created. To explore imagination, illustrate the joy of creating with movement, break the rules and follow it until I intuitively feel a piece is complete.”

His bespoke artwork has been collected by renowned musicians and artists including Miles Davis, Madonna, Jamie Wyeth, Amy Irving, Dan Rizzie and Tony Fitzpatrick.

Robin’s extensive and respected experience in the industry has made him an integral member of Wānaka’s art community and he has seen the town’s art scene evolve since moving to the area more than two decades ago.

“My initial years in Wānaka were brilliant. The town seemed undiscovered with very little competition. I had a solo show every year at Gallery 33 and donated work to charity auctions.

Now there is more local talent emerging especially with events such as the annual Labour Day exhibition held at the Lake Wānaka Centre that attracts more than 200 artists.Robin’s artwork is widely displayed throughout the region at locations such as Wānaka Medical Centre, Wānaka Library, Patagonia Cafe, Cork Bar, Relishes, Kai Whakapai, Pembroke Wines and Spirits and Carrick Winery in Bannockburn. 

Robin Brisker regularly shares his latest artwork via Instagram on @robinbriskergallery