One look at artist Robyn Blair Davidson’s playful original candy art, and chances are your sweet tooth will most likely be immediately activated. by robynblair originated as a sole piece Davidson created for herself, but the series quickly garnered the attention of collectors from around the world.
Not only has Davidson branched out to include a plethora of nostalgic sweets – like Chupa Chups, Pop Rocks, Lemonheads, Hubba Bubba, Pez and Fun Dip – the eye-catching designs now adorn jigsaw puzzles, candy dishes, merch, phone cases, home accessories, and more.
We recently chatted with Davidson, who is spending the summer in the Hamptons, about by robynblair, her sweet inspiration, new collaborations and more.
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Robyn Blair Davidson. (Courtesy Photo) |
Your custom candy works began with Dubble Bubble and since has expanded to include many nostalgic childhood favorites. How do you decide which candies to highlight and what phrases to pair them with?
RBD: This is my absolute favorite part. I always want to create new pieces and push myself to try new things. Although my clients usually want what they see from a piece of art I’ve already created, sometimes a client wants to try something new. Creating a piece based on a memory they have is extremely rewarding.
Right now, I’m obsessed with vintage candy.
Do you have a personal favorite piece?
RBD: My Dubble Bubble “In Case of Emergency” piece will always be special to me since it was the piece that started by robynblair.
Some of your work is available at Tenet in Southampton. What will shoppers find there?
RBD: They will find a mix of singular candy and monochromatic color pieces. I tried to display a range to show the versatility of my pieces.
Where else can we find by robynblair in the Hamptons this summer?
RBD: The Surf Lodge! My new jigsaw puzzles are available in each room for hotel guests. Having them at The Surf Lodge is such a treat for me and for the people staying in the bungalows. A perfect summer activity!
You’ve changed your business to give back in light of COVID 19. Could you please speak a bit about that?
RBD: Giving back has always been important to me and something I’ve incorporated into by robynblair since the beginning, whether it be ongoing donations of artwork or sales. The pandemic presented yet another opportunity to give back to those who really needed it.
I decided to partner with No Kid Hungry as soon as I learned schools were canceled. I was concerned about where kids were getting the meals they count on during the day, and No Kid Hungry helps provide those meals to children in need.
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A by robynblair jigsaw puzzle. (Courtesy Photo) |
What are you working on at the moment?
RBD: I am collaborating with an incredible artist and my dear friend Jimmy Paintz. Together, we’ve created a collection called “Happiness on Happiness.” Each piece in the collection is one of a kind. Every canvas is printed with my signature candy designs and phrases then covered in Jimmy’s trademark graffiti smiley faces. The pieces are bright and optimistic, which I think is something we all need right now.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
RBD: The pandemic has taught me how truly fortunate I am – I’m so grateful for my safety and my health. While COVID-19 has been challenging, I’m more energized than ever. I went back to the drawing board and revisited ideas I’ve had since starting by robynblair and have been overwhelmed with exciting products and collabs that I am working on. Can’t wait to share!
For more information, visit byrobynblair.com.
