We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tobe Roberts a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Tobe, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
As a follower of the martial arts, my work ethic stems from a profound sense of loyalty, discipline, and duty.
Loyalty (Chūgi 忠義): My commitment extends beyond a mere dedication to my employer; it is a pledge to the principles and values that guide my actions. This loyalty drives me to approach my tasks with diligence and a profound sense of responsibility.
Discipline (Seishin 正心): The discipline instilled by the Bushido code reflects in my work. It is not just about completing tasks; it’s a commitment to self-improvement and maintaining a focused, rigorous approach to every endeavor.
Duty (Giri 義理): Fulfilling my duty is at the core of my work ethic. Whether to family, community, or workplace, I see each responsibility as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully and uphold the principles I value.
Respect (Rei 礼): Respect is foundational to my work ethic. I acknowledge the contributions of my colleagues, value diversity of thought, and strive for excellence with a deep respect for the individuals and processes involved.
Honor (Meiyo 名誉): Upholding a strong work ethic is not just a matter of completing tasks; it is a matter of personal honor. Sincerity and diligence in my work contribute not only to my reputation but also to the honor I hold within the framework of the Bushido code.
In essence, my work ethic is an embodiment of martial values, shaping my commitment to personal and collective excellence.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Tobe is a graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts (TSOA), having earned his Master of Fine Arts degree in 1996 in Film Producing and Screenwriting.
With a myriad of experiences, such as being a co-producer for a New York-based video production company specializing in Native American programming, Educational Technology, teaching film at Fairleigh Dickinson University, and a background in Film/TV Development at Atchity Productions (MEG 2) and Paramount Pictures East Coast Publicity, Tobe has ventured into the realms of Fine Art, Digital Art, and Photography.
Currently serving as the art curator at Nomadworks and Suites by NYLO, shared office spaces in NYC, he showcases the works of both local and global established and aspiring artists through a partnership with NYU.
Influenced by artists like Hasui Kawase, Bill Rabbit, JD Challenger, and R.C Gorman, Tobe continuously seeks resplendent beauty and stories in his environment, aiming to create memories that evoke tranquility, which gave rise to his artist name – WindWaterCloud. Beyond his artistic pursuits, Tobe is a dedicated practitioner of the martial arts, weaving the principles of discipline and harmony into his creative journey.
His deep appreciation for Asian and Native American cultures resonates in his work, reflecting a profound connection to the spiritual essence of these traditions. His fine art photography predominantly focuses on bold colors, nature, landscapes, and equine souls.
Tobe is dedicated to building a portfolio that inspires and evokes emotions, believing in the energetic resonance of art and the healing power of selected colors. Ultimately, Tobe’s art reflects the beauty of the soul, a message he passionately shares with the world.
Explore his work at https://linktr.ee/windwatercloud.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Building a strong foundation has been a key aspect of my journey. I’ve invested time in mastering the fundamentals of my chosen field, establishing a solid base of knowledge and skills. This foundation served as the cornerstone for more advanced learning and experiences.
Networking and seeking mentorship have been invaluable. I actively connect with professionals in my industry, attend networking events, and seek guidance from mentors. Learning from others’ experiences provides me with valuable insights and guidance as I navigate my unique journey. Being open to adjust your “sails” on your journey is crucial to me.
Embracing challenges has been a guiding principle. Instead of shying away, I view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Facing difficulties head-on has led to valuable experiences that contribute significantly to my personal and professional development.
Setting clear goals has been a cornerstone of my approach. I define both short-term and long-term goals, creating a roadmap that keeps me focused and motivated. Regularly revisiting and reassessing my goals ensures that my journey aligns with my evolving aspirations.
Striking a balance between hard and soft skills is crucial. While technical skills are essential, I recognize the significance of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Maintaining this equilibrium enhances my overall effectiveness in various situations, contributing to a well-rounded skill set.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
I will take a step back and reassess things. Then, do a digital detox and take a walk in nature. Nature is my reset button.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/windwatercloud
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/windwatercloud/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troberts4/
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobe-roberts-151b22160/