Artists’ Attic sadly posts the passing of our beloved artist and friend, Bob Sandford on May 12. 

Bob, a loyal member of Artists’ Attic for many years, was an amazing artist, loved by members past and present at the Attic as well as art students and their families at Henry Clay High School where he taught art and was a swimming coach. 

A memorial exhibit of Bob’s work at Artists’ Attic is in the planning stages and will be announced at a later date.

Funereal services will be at Christ Church Cathedral, 166 Market St. Lexington, Tuesday May 19. 

Visitation will be at 11:00 and funeral at 1:00. 

For further information Bob’s obituary is at Milwardfuneral.com.

A light has gone out and Bob, his lovely manner, generous spirit and creative mastery, will be so very much missed by all of us.

In Bob’s Words

Painting is not just something I love to do, but something I need to do.I think a person knows deep down inside when there is something he simply must do. And often that compulsion becomes obsession – you have to know if it’s possible to reach what once seemed unreachable – to finally realize your dream. 

In my life, I have been fortunate to find fulfillment in many areas. But despite enjoying a long, rewarding career in the fine arts, I had never experienced the satisfaction of exhibiting and sharing my own work. A few years ago I decided this was one goal I could and would achieve.

I began painting full time and, in doing so, issued myself a personal challenge. I was determined to constantly improve, reach the next level and never allow myself to become complacent about my growth as an artist. It is a decision that has consumed me.

Now I can’t go very long without painting. It’s like an athlete who drives himself to work out—who needs to feel the sweat drip and his heart race. Immersing myself in a painting generates that same sense of physical satisfaction. For me, painting is the most important work I can do. It is my passion, my purpose, my fulfillment and my reward.

I am proud and happy to finally be an active member of the artistic community. I feel I am so fortunate to have the opportunity to pursue my craft and, hopefully, to see my talent fully realized. Too many people forget their dreams. I am glad I never gave up on mine. 

It’s taken me a while to get here, but I expect to have a long career as a landscape painter, I am surrounded by inspiration each and every day of my life. The exhilaration of seeing my vision recreated on canvas makes me want to paint it all. As long as my hand can hold a brush, that’s exactly what I plan to do.