The Accidental Painter
Robert Tabor's journey into the world of fine art began unexpectedly at the age of 51. Originally a traveling paint salesman from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, his path shifted during the Great Depression in 1933. Following the accidental damage of a reproduction of Winslow Homer's The Herring Net, Tabor turned to his own canvas. Though his initial attempts were discarded as failures, he eventually gained the respect of his family and found a place within the Public Works of Art Project. Despite the reservations of Grant Wood, who admitted it was against his better judgment to accept him, Tabor's talent emerged through works like Vendue, which depicted an Iowa farm being sold.
Legacy and Notable Works
Tabor's career spanned several decades, marked by significant recognition and diverse subject matter. His work Vendue was exhibited at the Corcoran Gallery of Art and was displayed at the White House, having previously been shown at the Museum of Modern Art. Other notable pieces include:
In his later years, Tabor was active in his community, founding an art society in Oelwein, Iowa, and working to establish an art guild in Olathe, Kansas.
Questions & Answers
How do I find works by Robert Tabor on a specific theme?
Robert Tabor's works can be explored by keyword on the artist's By Keywords page. Each keyword groups the related artworks.
Is there an overview of all the subjects Robert Tabor painted?
Robert Tabor's works can be explored by subject on the artist's Subject Atlas page.
Where are Robert Tabor's artworks grouped by technique?
To find all works by Robert Tabor in a given medium, use the artist's All Medium page.
In which historical period did Robert Tabor work?
Robert Tabor worked in the Modern period. The period situates the artist's activity in history.
