The Art of Travel: Q&A With John Robshaw

For iconic textile artist John Robshaw, art and travel are deeply connected. After spending time learning from local artisans and printmakers in India, Thailand, and Indonesia (to name a few places), he created his own brand John Robshaw Textiles, putting his own spin on traditional printmaking methods to make uniquely vibrant pieces.

It was that signature bold design that we loved and part of why we selected him as one of our 2026 Artist Series artists. But it was also the story behind each print that stood out. Each print is infused with the history of where these traditional techniques originated, along with John’s own distinct perspective as a trained artist. So, we decided to sit down together for a discussion all about world travel, art, and personal style.

Tell us about your most recent trip! What were your highlights?

My family and I just got back from a trip to Marrakesh in Morocco, where we spent some time in the mountains. There is great design at every turn there. We bought a lot of carpets and jalabas, which are traditional robes that have sleeves and a hood, to keep out the cold. We also visited a lot of kasbahs (citadels built from earth and clay); I documented as many old tiles as I could!

What destination are you most eager to cross off your bucket list and why?

Bhutan, in the Himalayas, seems really interesting. I have a friend who was a guide there, so I have some local, insider knowledge. You can’t go wrong with hiking mountains filled with temples.

What’s your favorite part about traveling?

Discovering, starting fresh, and resetting—travel does that. I get good ideas on the road. Routine is sent scurrying away; you see new colors and designs and meet new people. It’s a wonderful reset.

As an experienced globetrotter, what are some of your must-pack items?

I like to wear chambray shirts when I’m traveling. They look good when wrinkled and go well with jeans. I also bring some of my cotton-voile shirts (good for hot days) and Ralli blanket jackets (colorful yet tough!), both of which I make in India. The jackets are made from vintage Ralli blankets, which are traditional handmade quilts from India, so they’re already nicely worn in. And of course—good walking sneakers! I like sabah sandals, too. They’re handmade leather sandals from Malaysia. They can squeeze into any suitcase and look good day or night.

We’ve talked about how your travels have influenced your art, but how would you say they’ve influenced your personal style?

Ever since I started traveling, I’ve always worn the local prints. In Indonesia, famous for its batiks, I wore every style of batik shirt I could find, often paired with a sarong. In Thailand, known for its ikats, I made shirts from local indigo ikats. And in India, with its textiles and craftsmanship, I make block-printed shirts and jackets.

Speaking of style, how would you wear your Tommy Bahama Artist Series pieces?

My favorite thing about this collection is that the prints just feel like vacation. I’m looking forward to wearing them while traveling, but they’re just as right for a summer day at the lake. I’m thinking about the local lake near my home in Connecticut. There’s also something slightly elegant about the prints, too. They’d easily transition to a summer-night dinner party.

Last question! What does Living the Island Life mean to you?

Relaxation. Heaps of time, lots of books, and the sound of waves, the sun, the birds… and forgetting the mainland, of course.

Wear to Wander

Whether you’re an experienced traveler or planning your first big trip, the wonder of finding yourself someplace new, away from the stressors and patterns of your everyday routine, is always special. It’s the perfect time to be open to new possibilities: Try a new food, wear a new style, and maybe, find local art that speaks to you—and opens up a whole new world.