This young artist goes beyond simply making art; she lives it by simultaneously wielding a crochet hook and pencil. Every piece, a reflection of emotion, memory, and meaning is shaped by a profound desire to create and curiosity to experiment.
Intentionality, authenticity, passion, and emotion are some of the words HHS sophomore Abby Robinson expressed while creating. Rather than a hobby or a class requirement, art for Robinson is a ‘real-time’ manifestation of one’s feelings, thoughts, and memories.
“I would describe my art as simply just me, which isn’t very descriptive, I know,” Robinson said. “But what I mean is I think my art is what it needs to be when I make it, be it in a class project for entertainment, to say something, or just to tell a story. There is always a purpose, and in this case, it is meaningful.”
Robinson is unlike most young artists who feel the need to specialize in one style. She accepts change and lets her interests pull her into different realms, moving from one medium to another, experimenting free from the confines of rigidity.
“I like to switch between the things that I’m interested in at the moment. It could be charcoal one week, paint the next, clay the next, or just pencil and paper,” Robinson explained. “I don’t think I can pick a favorite; I just go through them again and again or try new ones to mix things up.”
Laura Leyes Woods, HHS Art teacher, recalls being awed by Robinson’s inventiveness right away.
“Abby is a very talented and creative artist,” Leyes-Woods said “Since I wasn’t her Intro to Art teacher and didn’t get to see her artwork during her freshman year, I was pleasantly surprised to see how much talent she already possessed,” Leyes-Woods added, “Abby surprised me from Day One—especially with her bellringer sketches.”
However, it’s not always easy to find inspiration. Robinson experiences creative dry spells like many other artists, but she’s learned to deal with them by being patient and taking things in perspective.
“I could fill a closet with all my ‘left ya hanging’ projects, and sometimes
it is hard to stay inspired,” Robinson shared. “I currently have a hoodie with a partially completed embroidery project on it under my bed. However, I consider the outcome and how amazing it could be if I work hard. To be honest, there are times when it’s best to take a break because when you return, all of your ideas come flooding back and you want to dive right in again.”
A family connection was the starting point for one of her most passionate projects. Robinson used her grandmother’s old crocheting supplies and tools to teach herself the craft after her grandmother passed away.
“I actually just started watching tutorials and step-by-steps online for crocheting,” Robinson shared. “When my grandmother tried to teach me how to do the ultimate grandmother skills—crocheting, knitting, and sewing—I was too young to comprehend. I promised myself that I would learn in her honor since I had all of her old supplies and equipment after she passed away.”
One of her proudest creations, a crochet blanket she made for her boyfriend and stuffed with memories and symbols from their relationship, is the result of that learning process.
“I used a variety of granny squares to make it for Nick on our one-year anniversary,” Robinson said. “For us, every square had a significance or allusion. I finally got it the way I wanted it to be after about two months of intermittent work. She claims that the harmony of structure and freedom in crochet is what appeals to her. Robinson remarked, “I like that it’s both complex and just looping yarn with a hook.” I’m not bound by any rules, so it’s really free. Once, while playing around, I created what appeared to be a seahorse, so I turned it into one..”
She finds inspiration in unexpected places. Robinson is constantly searching for inspiration, whether it comes from people, nature, or even commonplace items.
“Everyone and everything, literally, I adore people, nature, and all the small things that hold significance,” Robinson remarked. “A pile of apples can motivate me! All I need is something to see or feel, and it kind of ignites me.
She also enjoys sharing her work, especially when it’s created for other people.
“I absolutely enjoy sharing my art, especially when I’m creating it for someone else,” Robinson remarked. “My boyfriend has an entire wall of artwork to show that I create art for him, as well as for my family and friends! I adore the satisfaction that comes from creating something that brings joy to another person.
Over time, Leyes-Woods has seen Robinson develop both technically and expressively, becoming a more accomplished and daring artist.
“She’s learned more about media (art supplies) and how to create realistic bubbles and self-portraits,” Leyes-Woods said. “I think Abby’s Bubbles project is my favorite because it was so unique and beautifully done, even though I love all of her artwork.”
Along with her technical development, Robinson stands out in the classroom for her maturity and enthusiasm. Her teacher has been deeply impacted by her persistent demeanor and curiosity.
“Abby brings a quiet confidence and wonderful sense of exploration to the classroom,” Woods said. “She is always looking for ways to push herself and further her art, and she never displays signs of anger or frustration.”
Robinson has started to think about how her passion might influence her future as her artistic abilities and love continue to grow. What started out as a pastime might soon turn into a career.
“I see my art taking me somewhere if the opportunity presents itself,” Robinson said. “I genuinely enjoy making art, and I want it to be a part of my everyday life, so I hope that it will play a bigger role in my future.”
According to Robinson, creativity is ultimately a reflection of life itself, both of which are dynamic and intricately entwined.
“Art reflects life, and life inspires art,” Robinson stated. “Your art is influenced by your creativity and imagination, which come from life. You can use that to be creative and realistic in your artwork.
