Robert Hartman

It's been almost five years since your final flight, Bob and I'm still thinking about so much you said as my teacher, my colleague, my friend.
Your life and your work were one, easily one of my continuing inspirations. What you gave to me, I think you gave to everyone lucky enough to enter your orbit. We knew it then. We know it now. Judith Foosaner

I was fortunate to have been one of Mr Hartman's students at CAL in the early 1970's. I still remember his encouraging presence. I spoke to him a few years ago at a discussion about my friend J. DeFeo and was able to tell him how much I appreciated having had him as an instructor. He is one of those lights who will be missed.

"Mix Burnt Umber with Thalo Blue. Far richer than black." Robert Hartman 1967 and repeated to me in 2015.
--Susan Cooper

Bob Hartman was an amazing teacher. I studied with him in the early 80's at Berkeley. His insights, comments, and presence inspire me today in my creative work and art teaching. He made a strong impact on his students and was always focused on how to help. His words were the ones I returned to as I went out into the world. I'm so very grateful I had him as a teacher. My sincere condolences to his family.
Here's a poem I wrote about him a few years after I graduated.

Learning to...

Dear Bob,

I will carry the love you gave me into the community you so nourished and guided. I miss you, especially now with your birthday. We never cried together, nor shy did we laugh, your wit so clever, your mind so clear, you view so forward all to not weigh or tax your lung capacity. What you spared in words, what you focused in editing, you compensated in quality, depth, richness and flavor.
Thank you again, again, and again.
I sure hope you're still reading the...