Based in Strathspey, Robbie works physically and playfully to explore connections between human and non-human bodies, materials and features of landscapes. He is interested in trying to bring focus and increase value given to the physical body, across the senses, and to find resonance and application beyond the arts sector, particularly in environment and land restoration. These aims sit within the Scottish historical and contemporary context of land use and access, of biodiversity of place and in diversity of people included. He attempts to bring small, playful gestures to contribute to the overall progression of our national situation. Much of this is around proximity of connection and what ‘connecting with nature’ might look/feel/sound like.
Robbie originally studied human physiology before working across care and education and later pursuing dance and choreography. His artistic practice and outcomes tend to involve tactile or mechanical interactions and connections, investigating these with people of a broad range of backgrounds, demographics and abilities. His solo and collaborative dances and choreographic performances or films have been presented broadly on stages, in galleries and through participatory projects with people of different ages.
Building on his artist residency in partnership with land restoration organisation Cairngorms Connect (2020-22), he works part-time with the organisation, working with young people and intergenerationally on ways to participate and learn about landscapes, habitats and species within the framework of a shared 200-year vision.