About Tristan and Rubbr

Tristan is a Chicago-based artist whose journey began in the fast-paced world of digital arts, where he spent over a decade shaping visuals in advertising and editorial illustration. Over time, his creative compass pointed toward something more tactile and personal—leading him to embrace the timeless practice of traditional oil painting.

This shift was more than a change in medium—it was the foundation for Rubbr, a project born from Tristan’s desire to explore the balance between play and poignancy. What began as a series of lighthearted rubber duck characters gradually evolved into a broader narrative: one that playfully reflects on identity, transformation, and emotional resonance through both character design and fine art.

In his current practice, Tristan focuses primarily on figurative oil painting, drawing inspiration from lived experiences and the subtle weight of human emotion. His work blends classical technique with a contemporary voice, giving form to themes of quiet strength, vulnerability, and inner resilience.

With Rubbr, Tristan bridges two creative worlds—illustration and fine art—offering everything from character-based merch to deeply introspective paintings. Whether sculpting a duck in knight’s armor or rendering a modern figure in medieval steel, his work invites viewers to see themselves in both the whimsical and the profound.

As he continues to grow the Rubbr world, Tristan remains committed to creating work that is earnest, expressive, and emotionally charged—art that speaks softly but leaves a lasting mark.