Robert blogs on art, creativity, politics, CSA, religion and culture. Many overlap into multiple categories, like motivational or random favorites. Robert is a life-long artist, writer, musician & actor, a professional creative his entire adult life. Born in 1959 in Detroit, he has lived in New York, New Orleans and currently in Charleston. His commission portraits and fine art are part of over a thousand collections throughout North America. Read his bio.
BLOG CATEGORIES
ALL BLOGS
Kurtis T. Wilder Investiture at Washtenaw County Courthouse
Grateful for the positive response my second portrait of Judge Kurt Wilder received at the portrait's investiture at the Washtenaw County Courthouse in Ann Arbor, MI last week. I made a quick trip to Detroit to be present for this monumental event. My unveiling speech...
Freedom?
We think we have freedom, but do we really? Our choices are carefully curated, from presidential candidates to groceries. We have been conditioned to want what we have been given as “choices.” We are told to be happy with these choices. It will go easier for us. But...
Carol and Paul Schaap Unveiling
Today was truly a great day. I’ve been looking forward to sharing this portrait with the world for quite sometime. My portrait of Carol and Paul Schaap was unveiled at Wayne State in the Paul and Carol Schaap Chemistry Building, where it will hang into perpetuity. It...
Three Dog Night
This classic portrait montage celebrates the owner's three favorite animals in the world. It was presented as a gift and is destined to become a treasured family heirloom. Notice how the eye moves entering from the top dog from the left and moving down and around,...
Praise for Chromo Sapient by Barbara Pitcher
Forward by Barbara Pitcher Dear reader, this is a gift. I want you to take this little poem book somewhere you can be alone at a time when you need not a lover, but a dear friend, when a deep love or friendship is necessary. I had such an experience. That is why I...
Kurt Wilder Investiture
It is always exciting to present a portrait. Last week was the investiture of Hon. Kurtis Wilder's portrait at the Michigan Supreme Court. The ceremony took place in front of the entire court, all members present. There were speeches by many supporters, including...
My Teaching Method
When I teach privately I like to use the paint along process, where the student paints along as I demonstrate. This is how I learned, sitting next to my father and painting what he painted. I call it full immersion study. It usually works out as a win-win. The student...
The Political Divide
Collective fear stimulates herd instinct, and tends to produce ferocity toward those who are not regarded as members of the herd. ~Bertrand Russell (Book: Unpopular Essays : https://amzn.to/3PvxdDo) It’s strange to be a member of a group (democrats) that is so feared...
My Furry Friends Demo
Recently, I had the pleasure of creating an oil portrait of my dog, Bailey, as the subject of my "Furry Friends" demo, begun at Art on the Square Gallery, where you can also see some of my latest work. I finished the painting in my studio. Here's my Youtube video of...
The Slavery of Work and AI
We are witnessing a transformation of our economy, as the unpleasant tasks we formerly performed for money will be done automatically by AI. We all will someday soon receive a guaranteed income and be free to do whatever we like. Whether that is pursuing our art or...
How to Appreciate Art
Steve Anthony Cefalo created some great tips for appreciating artwork, with which I agree whole heartedly. This is not anti-intellectual dribble (heaven forbid). It’s a way to expand your intuition and use your lifetime of experience to enter a work of art. The...
One Man’s Trauma
We refer to life's obstacles as “formative experiences” or “trials” when we’re mature enough to process the challenges they present. We may succeed or fail but we are emotionally prepared to accept the consequences. And when we are not emotionally prepared to deal...
Maniscalco Gallery on Facebook
I rather like this portrait. ... See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.What a great opening night! I think we hit the mark. I'm in awe of the level of talent and dedication to message behind this show and its timeliness. We need to wake people up and turn on a light. ... See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.I don't like to politicize this page but I don't care for portraits being weaponized in this manner.  ... See MoreSee Less
Trump moves Obama, Bush portraits to hidden stairwell
www.yahoo.com
Once a dramatic feature of the White House entryway, the official portrait of former President Barack Obama has been moved to a decidedly less prominent position, underscoring the years-long tensions ...This was part of the recent NOAPS best in America show as well. ... See MoreSee Less
See the Light - Maniscalco Gallery
maniscalcogallery.com
Is the light in his eye placed there by God or is it merely a reflection of the light around him? What is this beautiful soul looking at?... See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.Son & daughter day is August 11. I will do your kid's portrait for 20% off my regular fee, if you reach out before midnight, on 8/11. Something to think about.
maniscalcogallery.com/about-having-a-maniscalco-portrait/ ... See MoreSee Less