Robert Thomas Mullen
he/him
St Louis, MO, USA
Robert Thomas Mullen is a contemporary jeweler and educator. Currently, Robert maintains a studio in St. Louis, MO. His work is represented by Penland Gallery, Craft Alliance, Union Studio, In Tandem Gallery, and several others.
“I delight in those rare parts of the natural world so often unseen. My work is a celebration of nature itself, drawing breath and inspiration from both new and old, remembered and forgotten. The materials have been collected and curated over the span of a lifetime spent waiting for the perfect piece.
As I grow older and the world becomes increasingly more complicated, I look to create beautiful and simple forms. In a world of sensory overload and social media, I encourage myself to always give a quiet moment to sit and reflect. A moment to focus on the overlooked.”
"1-1c: Seaside Brooch", Fossilized tortoise shell, beryl, tourmaline, silver and steel, 2.75" x 2.75" x .75”, 2023
What does being queer mean to you in relation to your material choices? Is it something you consider?
“I spent much of my childhood outdoors and with my family. We would travel all over the country on vacations to stay at national parks and to visit relatives. During this time I would collect and catalog bits of nature and detritus. Stones, twigs, bones, etc. All of this time quietly sitting alone I had time to grow an appreciation for the natural world. There are several queer members of my family. They taught me to question the world and never stifle my wonder. I believe that this fascination is imparted in each of my pieces. Every material carefully selected and arranged."
"3-3c: Garland Brooch", Fabricated, soldered and stone-set Lithium quartz, smoky quartz, lodolite and silver, 4" x 1.5" x .5”, 2023
Is the work queer because the maker is queer, or is it queer because the subject matter is queer?
“I believe that in my case the work is queer because the maker is queer. I spent a great deal of growing up on my own exploring nature. This isolation led to an introspection and sensitivity that translates through my material choices. My forms are dictated by the stones and objects I choose but are heavily influenced by the jewelry of the distinguished people throughout my life."
"2-2c: Cluster Brooch", Cast, fabricated, soldered and stone-set shell, shale, bronze, smoky quartz, silver and steel, 2" x 3.25" x .5”, 2022Anything else you would like to share about this work? This can be an important part of the process, sourcing materials, or research.
“When creating a piece I hope that the viewer notes the care that has been taken with every choice. I don't think of my work as being outwardly queer. I do however imagine the power people feel when wearing my statement or even everyday pieces. I hope that they give people the kind of confidence I see in my favorite celebrities, drag performers, friends and family."
