A FUSION of ART and FASHION
Nestled in the heart of Ontario, our vibrant town of Orangeville boasts a thriving artistic community that serves as a haven for creative souls. I recently had the absolute pleasure of speaking with one of them, the very talented Robin Bobechko.
Robin has always been artistic, and an astute female entrepreneur. Her first career was in interior design and decorating before becoming a successful financial advisor for 27 years in her hometown of Orangeville.
Ten years into semi-retirement, the unexpected arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic presented Robin with a unique opportunity to explore her dormant passion for art and natural creativity.
“I needed to do something more with my time during the initial lockdown.”
Rather than staying obligatorily still, Robin decided to pick up a paintbrush for the first time. She chose acrylic as her medium on canvas, and began experimenting with texture, colour and movement.
“I used everything I could around the house, including scouring pads!”
Over the course of the following year, Robin continued to develop her skill and personal style, utilizing everyday tools and her own research. “I painted a lot of birds at first.” She explained. A favourite animal of hers that she has now incorporated into her business logo!
In November of 2020, just one year into her painting and learning journey, Robin was diagnosed with breast cancer. “They caught it early; I was very lucky.”
Robin underwent a Mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery on her right, dominant side. These procedures cause serious mobility issues which affected Robin’s daily life. With limited range of motion in the shoulder and arms, tasks such as reaching overhead, lifting heavy objects, and even holding a paintbrush steady proved to be quite challenging.
“I couldn’t move my arm properly, so I switched from a more realistic style to abstract… I really grew an interest in and had fun playing with colour and movement.”
Robins’ tenacity is impressive, I really admire her. Rather than allowing her recovery or limited range of motion stop her, she simply pivoted. Embracing a more abstract approach to her work, painting evolved into a form of physical therapy.
“I think it (painting) really helped me during my recovery.”
It took Robin nearly 8 months to fully heal. In January of 2023, she realized that she had amassed quite a collection of paintings. Of course, her business brain kicked in and Robin decided that she should try to sell them. Within a few months Robin had hired an incredible business strategist, successfully launched her website (robinbobechko.com), and social media/marketing campaign.
In March of 2023 Robin wanted to see some more traffic to her website and continue to expand her clientele base. Once again, she adapted, switched gears, and announced that she would be hosting her first fashion show in June!
“Coming out of Covid isolation, I thought people needed to touch and feel again.”
Providing an environment and occasion in which people could connect, and experience her art became a focus for Robin. She sourced out a Canadian fabric printing company who could transfer her original artwork to unique clothing pieces. Her artwork became wearable! When I asked how she felt about her transition to and fusion with fashion, Robin said,
“My paintings allow me to be vulnerable on canvas, and creative in fashion.”
Within three months, Robin developed, designed, and produced her first clothing line featuring original artwork, making each item totally one of a kind, all the while organizing, promoting, and executing her first fashion show in her own backyard! The show was catered and sponsored by local businesses and wonderful friends.
“If it wasn’t for friends, I wouldn’t have been able to pull it off!”
Robin was so thrilled with the results of her fashion launch that she announced a second show for October 19th, 2023. This time, she hosted her guests at the gorgeous Alton Mill Arts Centre. Armed with an arsenal of new fashion pieces, clientele, and local sponsors such as Adamo Estate Winery, and Zirkova Vodka, the second show was a huge success!
Robin gives heaps of credit to the incredible men and women in her life who have constantly been in her corner. She made special mention of Micheala, a hospitality and events guru and Vanessa, a wildly talented seamstress. These women play an enormous roll in Robins life, and her mission statement.
Robin’s brand goal is to create a completely inclusive clothing line, and shopping experience for women. Size, shape, colour, weight, or financial differences matter not. Robin has made something special for everyone. Most importantly, a place for women to get together, connect and enjoy themselves.
“It is so important for women to feel good about themselves. To laugh and get back to the roots of having fun.”
Looking into the near future, Robin is currently designing a speak-easy style boutique! This unique spot will showcase Robin’s artwork, clothing and accessories. By appointment only, up to 10 women can sip and shop and socialize to their hearts content. The experience will be elevated by a variety of guest & motivational speakers, music, food & beverages! (Sounds like an amazing girl’s night out to me!)
I asked Robin what she would love to do with her new fashion & art fusion business; her ideas are endless! She would love to include more variety in her collection such as shoes, handbags and other accessories. A dream would be a collaboration to include footwear.
For boutique bookings and online shopping be sure to visit: www.robinbobechko.com
WRITTEN BY: MEGS CONNELL
