From Waste to Wonder: The Captivating Art of Conscious Creation with Robi Walters

London-based and internationally acclaimed, Robi Walters is an innovative artist who transforms discarded materials into intricate, captivating marvels. His art echoes stories of the impacts of consumerism and the possibilities for transformation—reflecting his own journey to break through boundaries and bring his dreams to life.

In celebration of London’s biggest art fair, Frieze, we’re honoured to partner with Robi Walters and West Contemporary to showcase Robi’s incredible installation, Love Supreme, at 1 Hotel Mayfair. This exclusive exhibit explores the intersection of art, sustainability, and mindfulness while finding beauty in the discarded and emphasising the intricacies between humanity and nature.

Every tiny element of Robi’s artwork is hand-cut and handmade, spotlighting his meticulous attention to detail and deep appreciation of time’s fleeting essence. Join us at our London sanctuary and dive into the conversation below to explore the complexities and meditative depth of Robi’s creative process.

Interview with Robi Walters

Your work transforms discarded materials into beautiful pieces of art. Can you share what first inspired you to take this approach, and how it speaks to themes of consumption and waste?

When I first started creating this body of work, I used any card packaging I found that hadn't been in contact with food. I would often dive into recycling bins, retrieving endless amounts of card, which gave me an insight into people's consumption habits. This practice brought a deeper awareness of how much packaging is wasted for every purchase. It led me to reflect on humanity's approach to the planet, treating it like an infinite resource—when in reality, it’s anything but. If we behaved this way on another planet, we wouldn’t last long, so why are we so careless here on Earth?

At 1 Hotels, we believe nature holds the key to mindful living. How does nature play a role in your creative process, and how do you see it reflected in the materials you choose to work with?

Nature is essential to my life and creative process. I find peace in the countryside, enjoying walks, fresh air, and year-round river or sea swims. Cold water invigorates me—it makes me feel truly alive. Beyond the physical, there’s an unseen and immeasurable element guiding my work: meditation. It forms the foundation of everything I do, much like breathing and eating. I’ve been practicing meditation for over 25 years, at least three times a day—twice in the morning and once in the evening. While the question asks about material, for me, my meditation is the thread that ties everything together.

The vibrant textures and colors in your art seem to bring discarded items back to life. How do you select the materials for each piece, and what role do texture and color play in conveying your message?

Interestingly, I often feel that color isn’t my strongest suit, and at times I struggle with it. Yet, it remains important. My connection to discarded items stems from an inner reflection, a parallel to my childhood experience of being separated from my family at the age of 5. In transforming these discarded objects into something beautiful, I’m expressing a personal journey—transforming myself to feel loved and valued. Texture plays a crucial role in this. It appeals to both touch and sight, creating a tactile experience. In an age dominated by technology, I value the craftsmanship of handmade textures—they hold a special significance for me.

Your pieces were recently displayed at 1 Hotel Mayfair during London’s largest art fair. What do you hope guests at 1 Hotel Mayfair take away from experiencing your work, especially as they reflect on sustainability and their relationship with consumption?

At 1 Hotel Mayfair, my hope is that guests see the immense care and love behind my hand-cut, handmade artwork and take a moment to reflect on their own time. Time is our most precious resource, and I hope my work serves as a gentle reminder of its value. I don’t want to dictate what people should or shouldn’t consume. Instead, I encourage mindfulness—buy things that truly resonate with you—and only when you have the means.

Where can people follow you and find or purchase your art?

People are welcome to contact me directly for a studio visit in Soho, London, through my website www.robiwalters.com. For art purchases, please contact [email protected].