World Views Blog
Leaves Through the Trees
When an artist paints a tree or a flower, we are not painting individual leaves or pedals, floating aimlessly in the universe of our painting. They are attached; they are connected to something larger. They are dependent on the tree or the flower, that is planted in...
Imagination and Religion
I read with great interest of Jimmy Carter's decision to "Lose his Religion." Frankly, I agree that losing one's religion is the first step to true spiritual freedom. Religion is primarily an invention of men to control others. As a positive organizing force it has...
Art with A Social Conscience
If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him. JFK Some believe art's sole purpose is to decorate. Others believe art is a conversation with one's self that is really a...
Forgiveness
"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ sake has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:22 Forgiveness often seems so impossible; vengeance so much easier. Even easier is acceptance. Acquiescence, easier still. I've...
This One – Little Girl in Queen Anne’s Lace
This One - Little Girl in Queen Anne's Lace (22x28"), oil on linen, is my most recent commission. This portrait of Charlotte completes her family's series of four portraits, capturing each child at about two and a half years old. This was created using several family...
Quench Project Artist Talk
PRESS RELEASE February 23, 2015 The Quench Project Artist Talk with Robert Maniscalco Where: Gage Hall - Unitarian Church in Charleston, 4 Archdale Street, Charleston, SC 29401 When: Sunday, March 1, 2015 at 10:00 am More info soon at Unitarian Church Website or call...
Joe Maniscalco Retrospective at The Scarab Club of Detroit
PRESS RELEASE The Maniscalco Legacy - Joseph Maniscalco Retrospective Exhibition Dates: Friday, April 3rd through Saturday, May 16th, 2015 Where: Scarab Club 217 Farnsworth, Detroit MI 48202 Reception: Friday, April 3rd 5-8 pm Gallery Talk: 6:30 pm on April 3rd....
The Only is Now
Time is nothing more than a way to describe our complex mind's ability to conceive and experience memories from the past and project ideas of a possible future in the present. Time is not a thing and doesn't exist, in and of itself. Our linear perception of time...
Arts Education and World Peace
We all know that an arts education is an integral part of becoming a professional artist. It is also integral to becoming a fully functional human being. The arts have a way of opening up and developing the whole person. In school, we are taught how to survive. We...
The “It” of Art (from “Point of Art”)
From "Point of Art" published in 2007, now available as a Second Edition A couple years back the Detroit Artists Network (DAN) met to discuss ways to promote Detroit artists. The question came up: what is the “it” of Detroit art (#itofart)? Most cities have asked...










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Here's the entire portrait. I love judicial portraits. What do you think of this portrait? Know anyone who wants a portrait legacy created? A portrait is how people know us when we're gone. ... See MoreSee Less
"Reflections on Nothingness" #existentialism This #painting is not a design choice; it’s a commitment to keep looking into the #mystery rather than numbing out. “Reflections on Nothingness” is a #meditation on the space between presence and absence—the quiet, unsettling recognition that everything we cling to is, in the end, temporary. This piece is for collectors who are not afraid to sit with the bigger questions: mortality, consciousness, and the strange beauty of existing at all. Hung in a study, retreat space, or #contemplative corner, it becomes less a decoration and more a companion for the long, honest conversations you have with yourself. Let me know if you'd like to the whole painting ... See MoreSee Less
A lot goes into making a #oilportrait. Hands, drapery, leather chairs. I am going beyond #likeness; I make every element as true and deep as possible, without them taking away from the main event, which is soul of the sitter. That's the #art of #portraiture. Let me know if you want to see the entire #portrait are interested in creating your legacy ... See MoreSee Less
“Light” is a #painting about the moment before everything changes—the quiet split-second when intention becomes action. Set against a swirling, cosmic backdrop, the hands of God (or man?) hold earth or another planet to the flame of destruction (or enlightenment?). The painting invites you to consider both the beauty and the weight of what we choose to ignite in our lives. It holds the tension between our power to create and our responsibility to care. #Light is for those who think deeply about #purpose, #stewardship, and the mystery of #existence, “Light” becomes more than an artwork. It’s a daily reminder that even the smallest spark—an idea, a conversation, a decision—can shape entire worlds. There’s a moment—right before we act—when everything is still possible.
“Light” was painted for the people who feel that weight: the therapists, teachers, spiritual guides, scientists, and quiet leaders who know their choices ripple out farther than they can see. If you’ve ever looked at our fragile little planet and felt both awe and responsibility, this piece is meant to live in your space. A reminder that what you choose to ignite today matters. Where in your life are you ready to strike the match? ... See MoreSee Less
Have you had an #oilportrait of your #children made yet? Now is the best time to #create an #heirloom #portrait by one of America's top portraitists. ... See MoreSee Less
"Jennifer's Flowers" is a recent painting. Can you see how it is a depiction of lovers? How does it make you feel? ... See MoreSee Less