Doctor Leo Robba

Leo’s research and design practice focuses on design thinking and planetary health, the dissemination of information, systems thinking and more effective ways to communicate complex ideas that connect communities through art and science. A central theme of Leo’s work is examining designs potential for creating meaningful cultural change relating to human health and wellbeing and the long-term stewardship of Earth’s natural systems. Leo is a long-time collaborator with Professor Tony Capon, USyd and John Reid, ANU (Emeritus) on projects such as Contested Landscape of Western Sydney and more recently The Painted River Project. His painting practice and research investigates garden design, garden culture, the changed landscape and how humans are compelled to redesign the natural world. His research is collaborative and where possible seeks to directly engage local communities in participatory design and art events in conjunction with other academics, industry, cultural institutions and the broader community. His approach to design thinking is inspired by Daniel Christian Wahl who advances biologically-inspired whole systems design and transformative innovation and regenerative cultures.

 Leo was awarded his PhD in 2017. His practice-based thesis investigates the artist garden tradition and the ways artists throughout history have used the designed landscape, plants and gardens as an expression of culture, and a symbol of human interaction and connection. (For more information see leorobba.com)

Prior to undertaking his PhD, Leo had an extensive career in graphic design and visual journalism as an Art Director and Senior Designer for Australian Consolidated Press and Fairfax Media. He has worked on publications including The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, The Canberra Times, The Bulletin and Australian Business Magazine in both print and the digital realm.

Leo has an extensive career as a practicing fine artist which to date has resulted in more than 35 solo exhibitions and participation in more than 250 group exhibitions in Australia and overseas. His artwork is represented in many private and public collections, including, Parliament House, Canberra, Queensland University of Technology, Maitland Regional Gallery, Brisbane City Hall Gallery, New England Regional Art Gallery and Museum, Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery, The University of Newcastle and Bundanon Collection. He is represented in Sydney by King Street Gallery on William.

This information has been contributed by Doctor Robba.