Although Bob's true muse was his wife, Skip, Mona Lisa came in a close second by attention Bob paid to the iconic painting. His Mona series reflects Bob's desire to constantly challenge himself artistically. Mona appears in the manner of many of his favorite artists in one series. In another series Mona stars in witty, sometimes a bit naughty situations. Mona's smile is the focus of many serious art history discussions but Bob was certain that he knew the reason for her smile. His yet unpublished children's book offers the "true" explanation.
The following are from a series "Mona in the Manner of..."
Robert Crumb
Stephen Pace
Kacel Appel
Alex Katz
Keith Harring
Bob had a wonderful sense of humor which at times bordered on a bit irreverent. He did a series with Mona attending a celebration with her artist friends in attendance which has a distinctly “Last Supper” appearance.
Bob continued to draw Mona and eventually wrote and illustrated a children’s book titled The Smile That Went….Away. Although as yet unpublished, a single copy that he printed and hand-bound exists. Here are two of the illustrations:
For birthdays and holidays, Bob’s friends and family always tried to find the silliest versions of Mona they could on posters, t-shirts, ties, calendars, ads, trinkets, and even socks. His collection is astounding and it awaits a new aficionado who will enjoy it as much as Bob did. Send me a message if you know of a good home for this collection!