Philosophy is a common theme that Robert Sanders portrays in his drawings. Though most of his creative expression is through drawing, he is currently trying to take up painting.

“It’s kind of hard, because I don’t like drawing with color.” Sanders commented. “I’m a monochrome kind of guy, haha.”

Most his works involve philosophers such as, Friedrich Nietzsche, because he feels they offer the most true inspiration. Many of his drawings’ themes also convey friends and students at this school, such as his prized white pencil drawing hanging in the main office.

Sanders first realized his artistic ability around the age of six. He would always see his older cousin drawing, and would often draw with his cousin’s utensils when he was not around. From then on he developed a strong enjoyment for drawing and art, and uses the chance to draw every time it emerges.

Many other artists inspire Sanders, particularly the work of older artists. He doesn’t like most modern “abstract” pieces of work because he believes they lack “true meaning.” His favorite piece of work is Leonardo DaVinci’s Vitruvian Man, a piece of art used to display the proportions and details of the human body. ”I’m a bit of a classicist, myself.” Sanders said.

He says that he likes his paintings to “have meaning,” which is why he often tends to draw philosophical figures and writers. Despite his obvious artistic talent, he does not wish to pursue a career with his art. Instead, Sanders wishes to only draw as a hobby “on the side.” He is not sure what he wishes to major in yet, but knows he will probably gain a minor in philosophy.

White pencil on black paper is Sanders’ favorite technique. He likes the concept of it forcing the mind to “invert” and have to view it “backwards.” One of his drawings using this technique is hanging in the main office, over the secretary’s desk.

Another favorite of his is charcoal, which he used to draw German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. This drawing can be seen hanging on the wall in the Upper St. Helens wing.

All-in-all, Sanders is a very talented artist, with a very obvious talent for what he does. His advice to those who wish to pursue drawing and other forms of art is simply, “Just keep at it.”

Congratulations on being artist of the issue!n