By Kippy Marks—
San Francisco’s LGBTQIA+ communities have always been shaped by artists, organizers, and cultural workers who understand that creativity is not just an aesthetic practice but a form of care. Among these stewards, Robert Melton stands out as a curator of connection, someone who has spent decades weaving together people, stories, and spaces that keep our queer lineage alive. His work is not only seen on gallery walls and in public events, but it is also felt in the emotional architecture of the communities he serves. It is my honor to highlight him in this column, Practice Makes Love Easy (PMLE).
PMLE is a philosophy that honors those who shape community through presence and purpose. Robert doesn’t simply embody PMLE; he animates it through every exhibition he curates, every event he organizes, and every relationship he nurtures across San Francisco’s cultural landscape.
As a curator who centers community first, Robert begins his work with people. He is a curator and Arts Forum Co-Chair at The Commonwealth Club World Affairs, where he also serves as an Event Planner. He has created platforms where artists from diverse backgrounds can share their stories, challenge norms, and build community through creativity. His leadership ensures that emerging voices—especially LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and marginalized artists—are included and uplifted.
Robert’s curatorial and event work has produced moments that resonate far beyond the walls of any gallery. His exhibitions and public programs have appeared in some of San Francisco’s most beloved cultural venues, including at the San Francisco Fine Arts Museums, San Francisco State University, San Francisco Main Public Library, SOMArts, San Francisco LGBT Pride Art Pavilion, Fillmore Artwalk, San Francisco Sunday Streets, 111 Minna Gallery, and the Dada Bar/Art Gallery. These spaces have become stages for queer joy, remembrance, resistance, and celebration—moments where community gathers, not just to view art, but to feel connected through it.
Whether he is curating a Pride-centered installation or organizing a neighborhood art walk, Robert creates moments that honor the vibrancy and resilience of LGBTQIA+ life. His leather and nightlife contributions further demonstrate his understanding that queer culture thrives in many forms—from galleries to dance floors, from museums to street festivals. He curates spaces where people feel safe, celebrated, and connected.
Today, he continues shaping legacy through his leadership roles: Chair for the Arts for AIDS annual fundraiser, Co-Chair for the San Francisco Symphony Ellen Magnin Newman Award Advisory Board, and member of the San Francisco State University Global Museum. These positions place him at the intersection of art, philanthropy, education, and cultural preservation. Through them, Robert ensures that the next generation inherits a richer, more inclusive artistic landscape, one that reflects the full spectrum of queer identity and experience. His intergenerational bridgebuilding is essential to PMLE. He understands that legacy is not a static archive; it is a living continuum shaped by those who carry it forward.
His leadership in the Arts for AIDS Annual Fundraiser reflects his commitment to HIV/AIDS advocacy. Through this work, Robert honors those we’ve lost, supports those still fighting, and reminds us that art has always been a vital part of queer resilience. His HIV/AIDS advocacy is an
extension of his belief that community care and creative expression are inseparable.
Robert Melton is the 18th individual to be highlighted in this column. He is the pulse beneath much of our community’s progress, the keeper of moments, the guardian of legacy, and the heart that inspires others to step forward. He is not simply deserving of recognition; he is the embodiment of PMLE itself.
Kippy Marks: How long have you been involved with the practicing of PMLE values in your work?
Robert Melton: My work has always involved the values of Practice Makes Love Easy. Whatever project I take on, I strive to make it fulfilling, nourishing, and giving to myself and those around me. My projects are about connecting with others on a deeper level that brings out the beauty in humanity.
Kippy Marks: Who or what motivated you to become the community activist you are today?
Robert Melton: My inspiration to become a community activist stems from family, friends and artists. I see so much creativity that all artists have to share with the world and change the world for the better. This strongly urges me to be part of this journey to do my part.
Kippy Marks: How old were you when you made that decision?
Robert Melton: I was in my early teens when the idea occurred to be a community activist. I dreamt of a world of peace, harmony, and love and beyond. I took boots on the ground with the hopes of changing the world through the arts.
Kippy Marks: What advice would you give to others on how to practice love on the daily?
Robert Melton: My advice to others to practice love starts with oneself. Accept all your flaws and greatness. It all balances out like yin and yang. You will feel more balanced, centered, and radiant, and people around you will notice your glowing energy you have to offer to the world.
Kippy Marks: If you were granted two universal wishes, what would you wish for?
Robert Melton: My two universal wishes are to be a philanthropist to help fund artists’ projects and provide living and work space for struggling artists. Secondly, to have the opportunity to be a world traveler learning and experiencing world cultures.
Kippy Marks: Please share any current practices that our readers may find useful, and update us on what you are doing now.
Robert Melton: What comes to mind are meditation and yoga; these practices provide clarity and aid in tapping into one’s creative energy. I’m currently preparing for Downtown First Thursday on September 3, 2026, South of Market: The Return of Neon City: Art/Music in a Different Light at 111 Minna Gallery from 5–10 pm.
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Listen to The Commonwealth Club World Affairs podcast “San Francisco Culture: Lost, Found, or Reimagined,” hosted by Robert and recorded on July 16, 2026, at https://bit.ly/4h0qOP0
Dubbed San Francisco’s “King of Strings”, Kippy Marks is a spirited solo entertainer whose shows are permeated with an infectious joy. His distinctive sound arises from his heart, through his 1822 violin consort, Izabella. Marks’ rare talent, broad smile, and radiant warmth will brighten any event to create lasting impact. He is also Grand Duke XL of The Grand Ducal Council of San Francisco. He is the first ever elected African-American Grand Duke.
Practice Makes Love Easy
Published on July 30, 2026
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