Robert Lowell Riseling

Robert Lowell Riseling

June 5, 1941 - September 21, 2025

Robert ("Bob") Lowell Riseling was born 84 years ago in Sioux City, Iowa, the only son of Margaret and Dutch Riseling, with two sisters, Kay and Suzie, by his side.

Although his path began in the Midwest, his true life's work unfolded in the classroom. After earning his MFA from the University of Wisconsin at Madison, he first taught in Monticello, Iowa, and later at St. Cloud State University. In 1974, he arrived at the Memphis College of Art, where for nearly four decades he introduced generations of students to the joy, challenge, and discipline of the visual arts.

In 1985, he founded the now-legendary Horn Island excursion, inspired by Gulf Coast artist Walter Anderson. What began with nine students grew into a tradition spanning more than 20 years. Bob guided students through the island's shifting sands, storms, and stillness, believing it to be a halcyon place, one that revealed beauty, demanded resilience, and sparked creativity. He spent 172 nights on Horn Island and even served Spam (with humor and ceremony) as part of the adventure.

A prolific artist himself, Bob's work was shown widely and is represented in public and private collections across the country. Yet, if asked to define himself, he would simply say "teacher." His greatest pride was seeing students discover their own voices, whether in the studio, on the island, or in faraway landscapes explored during his spring break trips.

Bob leaves behind his beloved Lois, his high school sweetheart and wife of 64 years, along with their children Marc and Micaela and grandchildren Aidan, Brenna, and Raia. His legacy lives on in the countless artists and dreamers he inspired to live fully, savor deeply, and see the world with open, curious eyes.