In every neighborhood, there is someone who makes the Arts a part of their life, and our community. You'd be surprised to discover how many different people use the arts to improve the quality of life in or hometown. EAT MORE ART! VEGAS will feature them regularly in our series "10 Bites."
What performing art do you do?
CEO at the Neon Museum, a nonprofit organization dedicated to collecting, preserving, studying and exhibiting iconic Las Vegas signs for educational, historic, arts and cultural enrichment.
Why do you do it?
As a native Las Vegan , leading the Neon Museum is a great way for me to give back to the city I love and to preserve our history for future generations. As a native Las Vegan (family has been here since 1939), issues concerning quality of life and sustainability drive my community commitments, both professionally and personally. In addition to chairing Neon Museum’s Board of Trustees for two years and serving as a board member for seven years prior, I've also served on the boards of The Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada, Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Nevada Taxpayers Association.
What’s your favorite production/performance so far?
My favorite has yet to premiere. But beginning in early November, look for a dazzling new experience in the Museum’s North Gallery. It will be innovative, illuminating and immersive -- and a first in the United States!
What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
I was the first native born Anchor/Reporter in Las Vegas at KORK/KVBC TV. My corporate career followed, primarily in the area of media relations, advertising, branding and public policy. I came to the museum following an 18-year career at CenturyLink, as associate vice president of government affairs and community development.
What memorable responses have you had to your work?
Dulcinea Rongavilla, incoming chair of the Neon Museum Board of Trustees, has said that, “Rob's passion for the Neon Museum, Las Vegas history and this community inspires everyone he meets. He is uniquely equipped to guide the museum as it builds upon its past successes and prepares to reach ever larger numbers of art, architecture, history and culture enthusiasts from around the globe.”
What would you be doing if you weren't in your current field?
Landscape Architect.
Name something you love about Las Vegas, and why.
The burgeoning arts & culture community. It didn’t exist when I was a kid. My children and grandchildren will be the better for it! I’ve seen downtown Las Vegas thrive, die and now revive. All in my lifetime. Incredible.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Every job worth doing…. is worth doing well (thanks Dad)!
What superpower would you have and why?
Mind reader. It would save immeasurable amounts of time.
Any future projects?
See answer #3. Trust me. You won’t want to miss this!
Are you a local artist of any discipline? Do you work with a company as a designer, stagehand or administrative staff? We'd love to get your 10 Bites to share. Fill out a form here, and you might be featured in a post!