Robert Fitzmaurice
BA Fine Art 1983
Robert Fitzmaurice is a British painter and printmaker. Originally from the Midlands he has lived in Reading, Berkshire since 1984. After studying Fine Art at the universities of Sunderland and Reading he went on to be selected by Adrian Heath as Artist of the Day at Angela Flowers Gallery, London. Since then he has continued to exhibit nationally and internationally, with work entering a number of private collections around the world.
His art presents the human figure in absurd, fragmented narratives that reference history, drama and rites of passage. Notable early exhibitions include Artist of the Day, Angela Flowers Gallery, London, and Whitworth Young Contemporaries, Manchester.
Recent exhibitions this year include The Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, International Print Center, New York and New Grounds Gallery in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and his art has been bought in places as far away as Shanghai where a collector acquired a small painting through one of the artist’s contacts.
Asked about his biggest achievement to date Robert said: “Getting into the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and an international print show in New York last year rank highly, but I think my biggest long term achievement is continuing to advance my artistic practice since completing my MFA. It hasn't always been easy, but I'm so pleased to have stuck with it and arrive at a position where I can now be a full-time artist.”
For Robert his main challenge is striking the right balance between studio time, research and promotion.
“I make regular 'compass-checks' to make sure I remain focussed on developing my own practice and only select opportunities which can take me further along that road,” he explained.
Reflecting on his time at Sunderland, Robert said: “Although The University of Sunderland had not been my first choice I am forever grateful that this is where I was eventually accepted. The Fine Art Department and its staff opened my eyes critically, intellectually and creatively to my own existing skills and potential. Their teaching, alongside the bold character of the town and locals I befriended, will always be valued and remembered fondly.”
You can visit Robert's website at: www.fitzmaurice.works