The Accidental Painter
Robert Tabor's journey into the world of fine art began unexpectedly at the age of 51. Originally a traveling paint salesman from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, his path shifted during the Great Depression in 1933. Following the accidental damage of a reproduction of Winslow Homer's The Herring Net, Tabor turned to his own canvas. Though his initial attempts were discarded as failures, he eventually gained the respect of his family and found a place within the Public Works of Art Project. Despite the reservations of Grant Wood, who admitted it was against his better judgment to accept him, Tabor's talent emerged through works like Vendue, which depicted an Iowa farm being sold.
Legacy and Notable Works
Tabor's career spanned several decades, marked by significant recognition and diverse subject matter. His work Vendue was exhibited at the Corcoran Gallery of Art and was displayed at the White House, having previously been shown at the Museum of Modern Art. Other notable pieces include:
In his later years, Tabor was active in his community, founding an art society in Oelwein, Iowa, and working to establish an art guild in Olathe, Kansas.
Questions & Answers
Can I visit a virtual museum of Robert Tabor's works?
A virtual visit is possible: the 3D Museum page of Robert Tabor presents the artist's works in a three-dimensional gallery.
What aliases or alternate names does Robert Tabor have?
Robert Tabor is also known as Robert Byron Tabor, Robert B. Tabor.
Is there a complete list of Robert Tabor's artworks?
Every work by Robert Tabor on this website can be browsed from the artist's All Artworks page.
How can I follow Robert Tabor's work year by year?
The artist's Artwork Timeline page presents Robert Tabor's works ordered by date, year by year.
