Robert Najlis He/him/his robert@robertnajlis.com www.robertnajlis.com In-person, Online, & Hybrid mentor BIO My studio practice is based in abstract oil painting, with research focused on questions of immanence and a resonant connection to the world around us. At times I augment my work with interactive sound art, which is created through audio synthesis and algorithmic composition mediated through sensors to create a real-time interactive environment. I am a Fulbright scholar with a diverse background including study of artificial intelligence and cognitive science, music, philosophy, languages, and cultures. I have lived in Asia and Latin America, and I speak both Chinese and Spanish. TEACHING PHILOSOPHY & MENTORSHIP Mentorship has been one of the foundations in my art education. I studied in the lineage of Hans Hofmann, not only by going to class, but by working in the studio with my mentor. I encourage students to search for and develop their own interests, while also working to ensure that they receive a well-rounded education that will provide a strong foundation as they move forward in their work and their studies. Ultimately, the process of learning is about the student, what drives them, and where they want to go.