Welcome to the enchanting world of Robert Kline, a self-taught artist with over two decades of artistic prowess. Born and raised in the heart of the Midwest, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery that led him to mature in the captivating landscapes of New England before finding his artistic haven in the sunshine state of Florida.
Robert’s life has been a kaleidoscope of experiences, encompassing 20 years of being a devoted student of art, a decade of sharing his knowledge as a teacher, 15 years navigating the intricacies of finance, and the accomplishment of publishing four novels. It is this rich tapestry of life experiences that infuses his art with a unique perspective and depth.
The essence of Robert Kline’s artistic expression finds its home in the mesmerizing world of watercolor, where mermaids, mermen, sea (mermaid) babies, pirates, lighthouses, fairies, dragonflies, and more come to life on paper. His creations are not just mere paintings; they are windows into fantastical realms, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the magic he weaves with his brush.
All prints available on Robert Kline’s official website are meticulous lithograph reproductions of Kline’s original pencil and watercolor masterpieces. Each print, whether in 5″ x 7″, 8″ x 11″, or 11″ x 14″ dimensions, is adorned with a personal touch – hand-labeled and signed by Kline himself in pencil. Ready to be showcased on your wall, these prints come with a 1/4″ foam backing, eliminating the need for additional framing.
What makes Robert Kline’s art even more enchanting is the narrative that accompanies many of his prints. Extracted from his captivating novel, “The Forgotten Voyage of the H.M.S. Baci,” these excerpts transport readers into a world where multiple generations of the Kline family sail the seven seas, documenting the captivating existence of mermaids, sea babies, and mermen across the globe.
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Robert Kline’s art, where imagination knows no bounds, and every stroke of the brush unveils a new chapter in the fantastical tapestry of his creations.
Review of “The Forgotten Voyage of the H.M.S. Baci by Robert Kline“
Kline’s novel unfolds in 57 sightings of sea folk, taking readers on a journey filled with fascinating dialogues between an aristocratic naturalist, Sir Edmund, and an ancient sailor, Gnarly Dan. The novel cleverly weaves together elements of history, fantasy, and humor, creating a tale that explores forgotten and suppressed events in the world’s maritime history.
The narrative introduces the reader to a voyage that was redacted from official history, involving the HMS Baci, previously known as the HMS Bounty. The novel goes further, revealing hidden stories about the USS Constitution, the HMS Beagle, and an American vessel named Pequod. The dialogues between Sir Edmund and Gnarly Dan, often taking place inside an experimental diving bell, touch upon the wisdom of historical figures like Archimedes, Leonardo DaVinci, William Congreves, David Bushnell, and the USS Constellation.
The novel also introduces Captain Fitzwillie’s replacement, the formidable Constance Daphne Fitzwillie, who takes charge with a unique leadership style. The dialogues between Gnarly Dan and the skeptical naturalist reveal intriguing details about sea maidens and masters, their courting habits, and even the transformation of sea maidens during pregnancy.
Amidst the fantastical narrative, Kline subtly incorporates an environmental subtext, highlighting the impact of human activities on sea creatures. The novel seamlessly combines with Kline’s own artwork, featuring exquisite line drawings at the beginning of each chapter and more detailed giclee prints that add a visual dimension to the tale.
In conclusion, “The Forgotten Voyage of the H.M.S. Baci” is not just a novel; it’s a rich, immersive experience that blends art and storytelling. As Ecclesiastes 3 suggests, there’s a season for every type of book, and for those seeking a tall tale filled with adventure and imagination, this is the season for “HMS Baci.”