Meet Robert Maurice | Watercolor Painter & Actor/Comedian

We had the good fortune of connecting with Robert Maurice and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Robert, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work/life balance is always a work in progress. I am an actor and a comedian and have been pursuing this line of work for over 15 years now. Suddenly, the pandemic hit and I discovered a passion and knack for watercolor painting which seamlessly and beautifully became an incredible side hustle in my life. Lucky for me, the last year and a half has gifted me with a lot of time to practice and play and learn more about painting; time I wouldn’t have had pre-Covid19. For that I’m very grateful. I am now left really working towards the perfect balance between time at home, to paint and continue to create visual artworks, and time for my performing/acting career – taking classes, writing comedy and just making sure to have some “me” time in the midst of it all as well.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a watercolor painter specializing in bold, homoerotic themes and colors. The bright and vibrant choices I make are an expression of my soul and the fire that burns inside me. I love being a gay man and am really proud of the culture and community that I am a part of. The subjects of most of my work are gay men as well, in various stages of undress, most often completely nude. I love this vulnerability and the sexiness that is associated with it. I also realize that this subject matter can be judged and perceived as overtly sexual or even “inappropriate” (whatever that means *eye roll*) by some, but I believe that when interpreted with an abstract element of color and my style, the material becomes more accessible and less “threatening” to the viewer. I also feel very lucky that my one on one work with clients (I deal with mostly commissions and custom requests) often leaves them feeling very empowered and confident in their skin, and in many cases I am told that they feel free and authentic and beautiful after seeing the final work and THAT makes me feel really good. I love to leave people feeling better than they did when they woke up 🙂

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Favorite restaurants: The Little Door – Most gorgeous patio dining you’ve ever seen. French restaurant. Beautiful bar.
Pine and Crane – Casual, amazing Taiwanese restaurant in Silver Lake
South Beverly Grill – YUMMM.
Bacari – Another gorgeous outdoor space to wine and dine.
Mercado – My fave sit-down, “high-end” Mexican restaurant. Margaritas for dayzzzz.

Drinks:
Blue Collar – Awesome, dark, hole in the wall, cocktail lounge with great soulful retro music and killer cocktails. Good date spot.
The Abbey – LA landmark gay bar, a must visit. Great outdoor seating and dancing and a super fun and queer time always. ALL are welcome.
Gracias Madre – Amazing cocktails and beautiful patio (vegan Mexican, yes, you read that right)

Visits:
I’m a big fan of the beach so I always encourage visitors to spend a day in Venice. I love the eclectic vibe and so much art and shopping and LA beach vibes. I also suggest everyone check out The Hollywood Bowl, The Comedy Store and anything that might be going on at Casita del Campo – which is a kitschy Mexican restaurant in Silverlake that rests atop a tiny blackbox theatre that never fails to offer incredible entertainment – if Dina Martina is in town, RUN THERE NOW.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I dedicate this shoutout to my Mom and Dad – I feel very lucky to have always been encouraged by them to do what I love, despite the oftentimes lack of stability that comes along with a career in the arts. Without their constant support and enthusiasm for my dreams and endeavors, I can’t imagine continuing to push and create.

Website: robertmauriceart.com (coming soon)

Instagram: @robertmauriceart