D. Roy Brubaker

Yet, the truth about Brubaker may be misunderstood. He doesn't compartmentalize his identity, shifting between being an artist one moment and a coach or teacher at Brophy College Preparatory the next. Rather, he embodies all these roles simultaneously, consistently.

Describing himself as a "tentmaker," Brubaker explains that coaching and teaching at Brophy serve to address the financial aspects of his artwork. His mixed-media creations are a manifestation of his life's purpose, and he transforms his art shows into service projects, firmly advocating the use of one's talents to assist others.

Operating under the name D. Roy, Brubaker's exhibitions have raised funds for diverse causes. For instance, the "Dreaming of a Cheeseburger" exhibition supported feeding the homeless in Phoenix, featuring handmade signs purchased from individuals seeking help on the streets. Another exhibition, "Dreaming of a Well," contributed to building water wells for indigenous communities in rural Guatemala. His charitable endeavors extend from Oak Flat in Pinal County to assisting a friend in delivering essential supplies to Ukraine, a school in Peru, and his last show supported Souls2Soles, a student-run non-profit providing shoes to the homeless in Phoenix. His current exhibition on April 4th will benefit Arizona Architecture Foundation.

Coming from a family of educators and having earned "Coach of the Year" accolades, Brubaker appreciates the opportunities for meaningful discussions and goodwill that arise from selling his abstract expressionist works, which he terms "Abstract Nostalgia."

"When someone purchases a piece," Brubaker remarks, "they acquire a part of me, knowing that they are contributing to someone's well-being or assisting a group of people. It becomes a conversation starter when displayed in their home or office—a tangible reminder that their presence and concern have made a positive impact."