Rebecca and Gene Tobey
Elk Ridge Art is very sad to inform our customers that artist, Gene Tobey passed away on January 4th, 2006. We consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have known and worked with Gene for several years. We have stood in awe of his work and treasured his friendship. This is a difficult time for his widow, Rebecca Tobey, his son, Josh and the rest of the family Gene leaves behind. The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Gene Tobey Memorial Art Scholarship Fund. Mason National Bank, PO Box 1789, Mason, TX 76856.
When two artistic souls meet and create a third sensibility, great things happen. This is the case of the fortuitous pairing of Rebecca and Gene Tobey, a couple united by love of art, love for family, and love of animals. These traits are incubated in a spiritual appreciation of nature and life and an acute awareness of what it means to be stewards of the earth.
The Tobey’s viewpoint is expressed eloquently in the simplicity of their sculpture that has pared the animal essence into a harmony of straight lines and curves, punctuated with color and sgraffito for visual interest and added symbolism. Immensely popular among collectors of sculpture, ceramics, watercolor, prints and jewelry, their cohesive body of work is self-identifying in its visual and emotional appeal.
"I’ve always loved linear patterns," Gene professes, "and you can see linear patterns on everything I have done in my career." "A lot of our art has to do with the west and its wildness and freedom," says Rebecca. "We find that, as we are, many people are fascinated by the west and what it represents - a different way of life." The Tobeys feel strongly that man is entrusted with the awesome responsibility of caring for the animals in the world, and most of their pieces reflect this belief.
Elk Ridge Art is pleased to represent both the Tobey’s sculpture and their jewelry.
CONTACT THE GALLERY FOR A COMPLETE RESUME OF THE TOBEY’S RESUME AND LISTING OF AWARDS AND HONORS.
