Bob Madden

August 22, 2022

Bob joined the Regional Arts Commission to assist with the Arts & Economic Prosperity Study 6 research program and is now proud to be working as a Volunteer Coordinator at RAC.

He is a returning student currently enrolled at UMSL studying for a BFA in Studio Art with a minor in Art History. Bob spent 35 years in fine dining restaurants eventually opening his own place in South City, 50/Fifty Kitchen “Half Veggie and Half Not”. Along with locally sourced food, the restaurant featured live music every night and local art on every wall. Art fairs were held once a month to support and encourage local artists.

During the pandemic, Bob decided to go back to school pursuing a degree in Art Education. He quickly recognized the need and opportunities in communities for art to make a positive impact and decided to change direction.

Joining the student run organization Artists Anonymous, he moved into a leadership role and furthered the mission to include helping the student body and reaching out to surrounding neighborhoods. Under his guidance, the organization has worked on several Make-A-Wish campaigns and community outreach projects. “Art is the soul of society – that is our mantra, and we strive every day to deepen the connection between people and the arts.” He is currently growing the organization to include chapters in other universities and to reach outside of the academic world.