The Alternative Press

WEST ORAGE, NJ - On March 7 the West Orange Public Library displayed pieces by West Orange artist Robert Lach. His pieces replicate nests relating to the overall theme of his exhibit, “Home.”  To make his pieces, Lach gathers and collects materials, recycling them into his pieces.  (e.g., used suitcases). Lach’s “nests” reflect birds in their habitats.

Lach has worked on different types of pieces including sculptures, found object assemblage, photography, and installation. He attended several schools, such as New Jersey City University, where he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in sculpture. 

He also studied photography at the Visual Arts Center in Summit and the International Center for Photography in New York City.  He has exhibited at several different museums in the area, including The Newark Museum. Lach says he has “a deep and spiritual connection to birds."

"Growing up not feeling rooted, I found comfort in the natural beauty that nature provided,” he said, adding that he feels it is not uncommon for artists to feel like individuals or outside of a group. "There are a lot of artists in the area." he said. "People should reach out and connect to them. Art is really about community.”

Lach’s display was sponsored through the West Orange Arts Council,  which also aims to bring artists in the community together. The Council is also sponsoring “creative connection” meetings that take place at the library once a month. Artists of all disciplines in the community come together to share their talents, offer and receive critique, and connect. The next creative connection meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 13 at 7 p.m.