SPRINGFIELD — The Emerald Art Center will soon present “Untamed and Indomitable,” an exhibition of recent works by California-based painter Robyn Drake, on view from Sept. 2 through 26. A public reception will be held on Friday, Sept. 12, during Springfield’s monthly 2nd Friday Art Walk. In conjunction with the exhibition, Drake will also lead an alla prima floral painting workshop on Friday, Sept. 26, from noon-4 p.m.
According to the EAC, Drake’s paintings move fluidly from expressive seascapes to vibrant florals, poetic still lifes, moody nudes and figures, and symbolic portraits of animals. Her Andalusian horse, Patrón, and her raven, Hector, both serve as muses and recurring subjects—symbols of freedom and loyalty. Each canvas is built with attention to mathematical structures as scaffolding for emotional dynamism.
Based in Half Moon Bay, California, Drake brings a lifetime of technical skill and lived experience to her practice. A seasoned equestrian and professional saddler, she balances a dual life as artist and horsewoman, traveling frequently to Portugal and Santa Fe, NM, in pursuit of both creative projects and equestrian pursuits.
Raised on a farm in Iowa, Drake credits her upbringing for shaping her approach. “Life there was unforgiving, and in that way, it shaped me to walk this path—untamed, indomitable, determined, and high-risk tolerant.”
Her work is known for its luminous surfaces, strong color harmonies, and a deep engagement with symbolism and emotional realism.
- Workshop: Alla Prima Florals with Robyn Drake … A four-hour session introduces participants to alla prima (“wet-on-wet”) oil painting, with a focus on floral composition. Emphasis will be placed on gesture, value structure, and simplified forms.
- Cost: $50 for EAC Members / $60 for Non-Members
- All levels welcome. Space is limited to 12 participants.
