With a life spanning nearly the entire 20th century, Mr. Graves' originality is revealed in all aspects of his life. Mr. Yarber, his estate manager and friend of 28 years, will present a biographical slide presentation of Morris Graves, including highlights and inight into his family and friends; education and travels; gardens and architecture, as well as his creative and life philosophies.
Raised in southern California, Robert Yarber followed a deep calling to seek the heart of nature, choosing to attend Humboldt State University, in the Redwoods of northern California, and focused on forestry studies. However, disillusionment set in, brought on by the Vietnam War and the sudden death of his father. At the age of 22, Robert lost the desire to focus academically, left school to hitchhike south, and was picked up by Morris Graves, who hired Robert to stewards his 200 acre estate, deep in the heart of a forest. Robert attended to the physical maintenance of the property and managed business dealings until Mr. Graves' death in 2001. Having bequeathed his estate to Robert, Mr. Graves placed no mandates on the future Robert would chose to live. With his wife Desiree, Robert has chosen to continue his life of nurturing the creative spirit by arranging a private foundation at his home at "the Lake," whose mission it is to nurture the creative spirit, one artist at a time. After 10 years, Robert and Desiree have invited and cared for over 100 artists at the Morris Graves Foundation, each, like Mr. Graves, fulfilling an impelling passion to create.
Related public programs:
Book Signing and First Friday Art Walk at White Lotus Gallery
Lawrence Fong and Vicki Halper authors' talk and reception
