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.
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Ambition and Bliss
What will be the judgment a century hence concerning the lauded works of our favorite composers today? Inasmuch as nearly everything is subject to the changes of time, and, more’s the pity, the fashions of time, only that which is good and true, will endure like a...
Talent Shmalent
You will have to play a long time yet before you realize that you can not play at all. Ludwig Van Beethoven People, students, often ask me to tell them if they have talent, as if to suggest they should not want to waste their time, devoting themselves to something...
My students make me proud!
Don't forget I offer an ongoing Drawing/Painting class every Wednesday, 10am - 12:30 pm to get those creative juices flowing. Join us in our spiritual quest on the banks of the Ashley River. It's always a great time to jump in and open yourself up to your creative...
Obama Portrait Items on Sale
What better way to celebrate President Barack Obama's second inauguration than with a fine art poster, teeshirt or coffee mug? For those who sleep better knowing he is President, this is a great opportunity to share the love. For those who don't, may I mention they...
Recent Lowcountry Live Appearance
Back in December 2012 I exhibited some paintings alongside a Charleston icon, the late great, Anne Worsham Richardson. Here I talk about the work and the posthumous collaboration with Anne. [youtube]VwRN7T_nL1A[/youtube]
The Advent of Creativity
The Advent of Creativity I wanted to pass on the Christmas wish I recently shared with one of my coaching clients: In our last conversation, we dug pretty hard into the many ego-infused reasons why we do what we do. My ulterior motive being, if we hold a...
Transformations
One of my students just shared this with me, which left me feeling deeply grateful and humble. It also got me thinking: "I haven't told you, but you are such a good art teacher. I have improved so much with your help, and feel like the sky is the limit....
The Case for Painting Sober
Have you noticed the rise of all the Bottles and Brush type businesses, offering a fun, easy painting experience over a glass or two or three of wine? These places are literally overflowing with drunken, brush wielding Van Gogh wannabees having great fun. What once...
Trenton Michigan Talk from 4/26/01
Honored guests, Over the years, I have been widely praised, while at times villainized as a vigorous advocate and promoter for the arts. I stand accused of being a flagrant self promoter. It’s true, I speak boldly about the exhibits at my gallery which feature local...
Detroit and The Carburetor Mentality
Detroit is at a cross roads with a burgeoning cultural revolution at odds with the powers of convention and mendacity, the results of which are best represented by slick new ball stadiums, casinos and glossy redevelopment. Detroit’s unique automobile culture is what...
Calling All Art Spirits
Article written by Robert Maniscalco and reprinted in Pointer News around 1998 Detroit, MI, — Many people have said to me over the years, “I envy you. I can’t even draw a straight line.” It breaks my heart to hear that many people have grown into adulthood convinced...
Portrait of an artist
Portrait exhibit shows work by former eastsider Robert Maniscalco It could be said that artist Robert Maniscalco works in the family business. Like his father — renowned portrait painter Joseph Maniscalco — he’s a portrait painter. And following in his father’s...


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Thanks to Jeanette of Art & Faith Galleria for finding my portrait of Mother Teresa a good home. If you are in Royal Oak, MI, make it a point to stop in and see the amazing artwork, as well as Jeanette's unique and magnificent collection of icons and rosaries. The work at A&FG is not always overtly religious, but it is always awe-inspiring, reminding us that God is everywhere and in all things. I think this is a time where we are seeking a deeper meaning.
My portrait of Mother Teresa joins my Pope Leo portrait as my most recent art sales. I think God is trying to tell us something. What do you think?
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Check out my pet portrait July special: Get an oil portrait of your pet through the month of July for a special price!
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What an amazing portrait! Bravo! ... See MoreSee Less
Barack and I were so honored to have @NjidekaAkunyiliCrosby create our portrait for the Obama Presidential Center. Her artistic brilliance shines through — and the way she infused such life and joy into the piece is truly extraordinary. We love it, and we think everyone who visits the Center will too!
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