Robert K. Tom

Associate Professor, 3D Specialist

CB 77
612-330-1231
tom@augsburg.edu

ROBERT K. TOM has been teaching three-dimensional studio art and design at Augsburg University since 2002. His interdisciplinary creative process and teaching methodology have been influenced by his Hawaiian/Chinese heritage combined with a fusion of Eastern, Western, and Pacific Island thought and aesthetics. He creates interactive works that asks the viewer to contemplate disparate perspectives and acceptance of divergent possibilities. robert pursues a multi-media approach in seeking solutions to his questions.

His recent receipt of a Minnesota State Arts Board Cultural Collaborative grant and a Forecast Public Arts grant pairs the Augsburg University community with students from Cedar-Riverside Elementary School to produce a bas-relief ceramic mural. This project promotes a deeper level of understanding and commitment to sustaining a more cohesive community.

Prior to working at Augsburg University, Robert taught at Minnesota State University Moorhead, and from 1995-98 was visiting faculty at Minnesota State University campus in Akita, Japan. He then followed his heart to Brisbane, Australia, to pursue studio work, and back to Minnesota in 2000 where he has since been taking root.

Education

  • BFA Ceramics/Sculpture, University of Hawaii
  • MFA Ceramics/Glass, Tyler School of Art, Temple University

Classes

  • Ceramics
  • Design
  • Sculpture

Recent Artwork

  • jhanas 3, fuse cast glass/mixed media, 18″ x 24″ x 24″, 2006 
  • jhanas 4, fuse cast glass/mixed media, 25″ x 32″ x 32″ , 2005
  • mana revisited, fuse cast glass/off-hand glass spheres/mixed media. 6ft. x 4ft. x 6″, 2006