In our last Spotlight interview, we chatted with British actor, director, and muse of the fashion industry, Robert Pattinson.
Now, we’ll shed some light on the artist formerly known as the Dark Knight.
When it comes to his passions, the handsome blond attributes his work to his love of art and literature. We chatted with the British actor about his passions, his art, and where he sees his career going.
Art And Literature Are At The Center Of His World
Pattinson has always been extremely focused on his art and literature. He began his studies at the British American Drama Academy in England and then went on to study acting at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. After graduating from LAMA in 2014, he headed to New York City and then landed the role of Christian in the Broadway revival of John Beshir’s The Dewey Decimal System.
The actor took a bit of a break from Broadway to film the independent romantic comedy, Pattinson for Pope, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January of this year and then went on to receive critical acclaim in Venice, London, and other major international film festivals. From there, it was off to the sets of the action thriller, The Rover, where he shared screen time with Rooney Mara and John Boyega. At this stage in his career, Pattinson is not one to waste time, and jumped back into the big-budget fray with Dior’s fall 2017 Ad Campaign, shot by acclaimed photographer, Mario Testino. The high-profile shoot drew inspiration from the cinematic glory that is the 1927 silent classic, The King of Kings, which tells the story of Jesus Christ’s quest to save mankind with a single miracle cure – oil. What better inspiration for a $150 million dollar worldwide ad campaign than to focus on the one thing that gives life its meaning.
Where Does He See His Career Going?
Pattinson sees his career extending well beyond the big-budget action heroics that have graced the big screen. He’s certainly not opposed to taking a role in a blockbuster movie, but in a world where budgets are no object and special effects are at the forefront of every film production, he sees himself as a valuable member of the ensemble. He cites Ryan Gosling’s acting prowess in the romantic comedy, Lost in Translation, as an example of his own unique blend of charisma and sensitivity.
A major studio executive recently told us that Pattinson “brings an energy and a sense of authenticity that really resonates with audiences.” We can’t argue with that.
His Art Is Evolving
As a child, Pattinson was immersed in art and painting, so it was only a matter of time before he began exploring the creative side of his mind. When he’s not acting, directing, or creating, he can be found reading, learning French, or spending time with his family.
The actor’s artwork reflects his incredible attention to detail and his unique take on modern historical themes. He explores the human condition and the nature of existence through his art, often using his own experiences as a springboard for his narratives. The result is a body of work that is both impressive and deeply personal. Most recently, we’ve seen his take on the Elizabeth Taylor/Jack Taylor marriage, which he explored via a series of illustrations for Vogue UK. The actor’s work also appears in a solo exhibition at London’s Saatchi Gallery, as part of the Young British Artists series. The show, which launched last year, brings together work by emerging and established talents to explore the themes of romance and modernity. Among the exhibited works are large-scale pencil drawings, screenprints, and original paintings that explore the theme of love in all its forms.
An Immense Source Of Inspiration
Pattinson’s work is a constant source of inspiration for those around him. His commanding presence, extraordinary talent, and pure radiance make him a true gem in the world of fashion and art.
The actor’s unique blend of humor, sensitivity, and classical good looks make him a versatile presence on the red carpet. He earned worldwide fame as the iconic Twilight Saga vampire, Edward Cullen, and his unique talent for inhabiting a character has made him a muse to many in the film industry. With his breakout role in Twilight, Pattinson ushered in a new era for British acting, earning a Golden Globe and three Screen Actors Guild Awards. Since then, he’s appeared in blockbusters like The Legend of Tarzan, Spectre, and the upcoming Joker, directed by Alejandro J. González \ [ál.]
The list of artists Pattinson has cited as an influence goes on and on. His heroes include Gustav Klimt, Edgar Degas, and Vincent van Gogh, and he continues to study the masters’ work, seeking new insights into human nature and beauty. When asked about his greatest influence, he replies, “There’s such a diversity of painters and I really like studying their work. But probably the greatest living painter is, without question, Vincent van Gogh.”