We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Robert “JustRo” Stephenson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Robert, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
“In 2021, I embarked on a transformative journey through Ghana, Togo, and Senegal, sparking a profound connection to the continent and its rich artistic traditions. I had the privilege of immersing myself in the world of indigenous artisans, witnessing their sacred processes firsthand and receiving the gift of handmade textiles and their history. I understood that this indigenous craft and knowledge hold wisdom that has provided safe harbor, cultural strength, endurance, and mental security to people for centuries. These textiles, in their very fiber, have always been a powerful symbol of storytelling and a conduit for proverbs passed down through generations. I felt this acutely while participating in the making process itself, eternally aware of becoming a part of that vital chain of storytelling.
In West Africa, I found that people often communicated through proverbs – ancient nuggets of wisdom, simple yet profoundly impactful in illuminating life’s complexities. Learning about the relationship between these proverbs and the symbolic language woven into the textiles ignited a sense of discovery within me. As an African American, I was struck by the contrast between the utilitarian, often symbolically sparse clothing of the US and the vibrant, historically significant textiles of West Africa. Each pattern, each color held a story, a message, a visual aphorism in itself. “Visual Aphorisms” is born from this experience.
When I returned to the States, I immediately felt a wash of anxiety due to the constant hysteria and negative messages assaulting our senses – the relentless attacks on identity and the ongoing power struggles to maintain ourselves. I broke out the textiles I had created with the artisans, and was immediately reminded of what’s real and important, and felt grounded. It was the textiles that broke out the wisdom and resilience. It inspired me to pursue the art of textile and attempt to recreate this grounding experience for audiences who otherwise wouldn’t have this intimate connection to tradition.
Through a unique process that combines textile artistry with structural techniques inspired by my background in aerospace engineering, I mold and harden these textiles into three-dimensional sculptures, preserving their delicate beauty while giving voice to the proverbs they embody. I research the pattern ology of the textiles, and think deeply about the current state of being, and project those ideas into the art and textiles. Each piece in the series is an invitation to explore the rich cultural tapestry of West Africa and to contemplate the enduring wisdom of its proverbs.”
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I create mix-media art using textiles, forming and shaping them as if they were solid. I explore themes of identity, power, and symbolism. Drawing on proverbs and historic textiles, my work bridges the past and present, inviting viewers to contemplate our shared humanity. Explore the collection and discover artworks that spark dialogue and inspire change.
“Visual Aphorisms: 2025 retrospective” will an immersive art experience exploring themes of identity, power, and social justice through textile-based sculptures. This event will culminate a year-long artistic journey, showcasing works created in response to the pressing political and economic challenges of our time. Presented as a “retrospective,” the exhibition and accompanying activities offer viewers a look at how we navigated uncertainty, fostered resilience, and inspired a nation.”
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
The best advice I can offer is to cultivate patience with yourself. Life’s journey inevitably presents challenges that may tempt you to turn inward with self-doubt. In those moments, remember that you are your most powerful tool. Trust in your own innate curiosity, embrace resilience in the face of setbacks, and allow patience to guide you towards mastery and ultimately, the success you desire.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Curators and Galleries: Individuals or institutions with a strong commitment to socially engaged art and a track record of showcasing diverse voices. I am hoping to work with those who look to make the message of the art speak loudly
Community Organizations: Organizations working on the front lines of social justice issues, from voting rights to economic empowerment to environmental protection.
I hope to have our vision align to further grow outreach to communities and the people that you love to serve.
Thought Leaders and Activists: Individuals who are passionate about using their platforms to promote positive change and inspire action. I want to provide a platform to show these voices from the different walks of life can give direction and support
Art and Design Professionals: Graphic designers, videographers, photographers, and other creatives who can help me create compelling visuals and engaging content. The media is our best way to tell our story, so having professional expertise would be a blessing.
Business minded folk: As a working artist, to partner with people with expertise outside of what I know would be great.
Traditional Crafts people: Those who have traditional and generational knowledge of craft
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theartoftextile.com
- Instagram: 1_just_ro
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
