Over the weekend, Robb Smith, a well known Milwaukee artist and photographer, was shot and killed outside of Mr. Jays on Fond Du Lac Ave. After working an event, he was leaving the sweet 16 birthday bash when someone came up behind him and shot him in the back of the head. Shortly after being shot, a friend of his came outside the venue saw him on the ground and tried to give him CPR but there was no sign of a heartbeat.
In our city, we hear about shooting and killings all the time. The senseless violence seems to never end. Robb Smith was a very special gem in our city. He was more than an artist. He was a husband, a father, a brother, a son, a business owner, community supporter, and more. Many people know Robb for his infamous paintings and vivid portraits. He’s painted all over the city and even gifted his work to many celebrities. Just this year, rapper Lil’ Baby featured Robb’s artwork in one of his music videos.
Speaking of videos, we will never forget the people who also knew him because of his humorous viral videos. Robb was a good dude with an energy out of this world. He loved to hookah, sip and paint, travel, cars, and good vibes. We will never forget his music videos that were guaranteed to put a smile on our faces. His presence was so pleasant.
Just last year, I had the pleasure to interview Robb and his wife Zena as they launched the R & Z Urban art Gallery. The gallery was something they wanted to use to giveback and accommodate the community. Although it’s an art gallery, where artists can showcase their artwork, the word “gallery” doesn’t do it justice for what they really want to do with the space.
Robb was a guy with integrity. He had great intentions. His mindset was positively focused. During the interview last year I asked him about his mantra “ART SAVED ME”. I asked what does that mean. His response was so impactful. He talked about how he had a rather rough background, being young, making bad decisions, but ART SAVED HIM. He went on to encourage us to allow art to save us. He said that art doesn’t have to be painting and colors, art is your craft, whatever that craft may be. He made a reference to the Bible about how your gift will make room. Whatever you put your mind to you can do it.
It’s so sad to see such a young and ambitious, goodhearted soul leave us so early. For many of us this death is unreal. It’s hard to grasp it. We are sending our love and prayers to Zena Smith and all of his family; for we know Robb was a family man above all. Let’s let his legacy live on, posting and reflecting on his art. Let’s take in the message. Let’s find a way to keep him in our hearts. Let’s pay homage where it’s due.
We love you forever, Robb.
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