Impressive, Deep and Satisfying journey through colorful inner terrain.

Everyone was fantastic!!

What marvelous layering of media and thoughts. Thoroughly enjoyed the thoughts, painting and acting. Thank you all.

I am impressed by your book, Point of Art, and I have read, underlined and included your words in my art journal.  So many times you condensed and verbalized my thoughts and feelings about art and the creative process.  I even found the line on page 61, in “The Easy Way vs the Right Way,” to describe your workshop in Chapin.  You gave us “the necessary information presented in a way we can understand and assimilate.”  You presented in an extremely entertaining, fun, non-intimidating, and fact-filled manner.  Your comments throughout the two day workshop were as important and informative as the more concrete methods you taught.  Jean S. Kirkley.

I just wanted to let you know that I have already gotten so much out of our sessions. I see much improvement in my paintings and my drawings. I see more than I did before meeting with you. I realize I need to slow down (way down) and focus on every foundational element you have taught me one step at a time. Thank you so much for your time and accommodations, it is exactly what I need! I am a huge admirer of your work, especially “Quench.” I am excited to learn from you as an artist. I enjoy exploring your studio work as well as your website. Sarah Harris

Quench challenges the reader to experience a very unfamiliar and risky trip to Haiti to help with the water supply. The author provides us with visuals and thought provoking words in a way seldom seen. It was not an easy trip but on with immeasurable rewards. This book deserves the highest rating on any scale.

Quench challenges the reader to experience a very unfamiliar and risky trip to Haiti, to help with the fresh water supply. The author provides us with visuals and thought provoking words in a way selfdom seen. It was not an easy trip, but one with immeasurable rewards. This book deserves the highest rating on any scale. — Diane Owensby

The P³ is packed with knowledge! There is no better starting point for realistic painting than Frank Reilly’s teachings, and Rob Maniscalco delivers this information in easily digestible prose, along with inspirational advice and technical know-how.   —  John Ennis, Portrait Artist, author of The Reilly Papers blog

Thank you for sharing your incredible expertise and wisdom. As a portrait student, I’ve been refreshed and revived and inspired by your teaching. I’d endorse you any day! Artistically yours, — Mary Hoffman

Put Robert’s lifetime of study to work for you because the best way to learn is to learn what a master has discovered, so they can save you at least some of the headaches. You cannot avoid them all, but Robert deeply understands the how of teaching, and what you must go through to learn. The Power of Positive Painting focuses on the craft aspect of painting. Certainly, Robert’s artistry comes through but no attempt by him is made to sway the reader stylistically. His method is intended to equip you for any representational genre, style or subject. Robert explores that place between art and craft and science with courage and sensitivity. — Eric Rhoads, founder and publisher of  Fine Art Connoisseur and Plein Air magazines.

Rob Maniscalco is a distinguished artist, writer, art teacher, playwright and actor. I applaud him for that. As you might expect, I am a tough critic. I think your book will be a success! The Power of Positive Painting gives many valuable insights. It’s been my pleasure and honor to be able to get this “sneak peak” of his wonderful book. Rob, your dad was a wonderful artist! I see you are as well. You have learned from the best! — Jack Faragasso, Frank Reilly authority, Professor Emeritus at the Arts Student’s League

IF I was an artist, especially a painter, I would insist this book goes into the curriculum in every art school in the country. Amazingly thorough, insightful, and full of views from 30,000 all the way down to the runway. — Doug Crowe

I really do appreciate you and what this instruction is doing to lift up my artwork to a higher level. As an artist, this has been a dream come true, to be able to understand light and shadows. You’re a very special teacher. I thank you. — Maureen Gonzalez

The Fishfly was a very interesting read. I believe societies like the ones in the book do exist however very rarely talked about. I was a bit surprised at the ending. I was sure I had it figured out. Absolutely worth reading.– Amazon Customer

Ever been a victim? Of course you have. Of a schoolyard bully. A teacher seeking to set an example. A lousy boss who makes subordinates pay for his or her dumb ideas. A robber. A cheat. A petty thief. We’ve all been victims. It’s life. In the United States, our inalienable rights include the pursuit of happiness, not happiness itself. That’s for us as individuals to achieve or fail. The great majority of us get over being a victim. Meaningful people are repulsed by the prospect of joining the whiny ranks of perpetual victim-hood, whose members indenture themselves to the more accomplished and powerful, real or imagined. But what if? — Brad Lindburg  Read the Full article

The Fisfhly

I’ve learned so much from Robert in the classes I’ve had with him. It’s been a great opportunity, learning from someone who reads his students well – someone who has taken the time to listen to specific concerns and then has systematically taken the time in class to address them. Through his classes I feel that I’ve reached a breakthrough and have moved into bolder, more deliberate brushstrokes, in addition to utilizing a much better, more well-prepared palette. Friends and family are commenting on how these lessons have so enormously improved my painting. Of course, I’m really looking forward to future classes. Who wouldn’t be, after experiencing such great results! — Jane S Yelp Customer review

Just like art, we view certain things differently. How you see it, or how I see it, may be totally different. I will give you a perfect example of what I mean, and it has nothing to do with politics. When I was in 8th grade we spent a semester of poetry. We each had to stand up and give our interpretation of a certain poem. From my reading I got hope and beauty….yea right! Teacher said it is about death. I asked, “did the author say it was about death?” “NO, he is dead.”  I said “then we really do not know what he was trying to convey. I saw beauty, you see death.” Was he wrong, was I wrong?  I got a D-.  Next year I was published in Poetry, and became a member of the debate team.

I have seen your work and your father’s, to me not only beautiful, but interesting, it conveys one message to me that might be totally different for the next person. I loved you coming to do a presentation of your work, when I was President of the Artist Guild, you give a wonderful program, interesting, talented, and nothing run of the mill. — Debra McKinley

The DVD on the Power of Positive Painting is one of the best DVD’s I have ever seen. It taught me so much and I felt like I was actually a student in your class. I learned so very much and I don’t ever know how to thank you for all you taught me. To me it was a true gift. Someday when I get better. I hope to be able to afford to take your mentoring program. I know it would be the best thing I could ever do for myself. I could not fail with you in my corner. I just need some more time to learn more and reach the level I need to – Sylvia

Growing up, I never thought I could be much of a painter. I am now interested in giving it a try, and bought this book (in person) to help me. What a great decision!! This book gives anyone, regardless of experience, great help in creating an interesting painting! From the basics of sketching, proportion, and subject, to color and lighting, plus more. Great photo examples along with text are extremely helpful! I The author shares so much with the reader…I can’t recommend this enough! Sue Jaissle Williams

I’ve been painting a little here and there over the years, but have gotten good feedback from teachers. Expect that after retirement, I can devote more time. This book is just what I needed to inspire me. Rob has a way with explaining how to paint portraits, something I find the most challenging. There are many examples of how to do it at each stage that really helps to envision what you’re trying to do before you do it. This gives me confidence that I can do it too.— Believer (from Amazon)

I feel honored to know Robert Maniscalco, the master artist featured in this very recent television interview. We met and became friends through our common interest in the federal capital trial of Dylann Roof. I was researching a book and Maniscalco had been commissioned by media for visual depictions of the defendant and courtroom scenes during that trial in which photos and video of the proceedings were forbidden. Watching this interview with Maniscalco will also enable you to view some of his most consequential works of art. Bravo, Rob.* Your approach to the creation of art is as impressive as the incredible works you produce. — David Gillespie

I am very pleased with all that I am learning in private instruction and I am about half way through the book. As you warn against in your book, the more I paint, the more I find myself not looking at the photo as much as the painting. The book is a great compliment to your lessons as well as a great reference. In my opinion the book is very helpful. It explains exactly what you teach, i.e., envelope, blind and modified, couture drawing, color components, etc.  Teaching along with the book is very helpful. They reinforce one another. — Angie Pierce

A great introduction to drawing and painting. Robert’s “No experience required” approach means a student can learn step by step without fear of getting lost or overwhelmed. — Robert Schefman, Professor of Fine Art, College for Creative Studies, Detroit

The P³ is packed with knowledge! There is no better starting point for realistic painting than Frank Reilly’s teachings, and Maniscalco delivers this information in easily digestible prose, along with inspirational advice and technical know-how. —  John Ennis, Portrait Artist, author of The Reilly Papers blog

Your instruction is sound and you are so good at articulating what you are trying to explain. This book has reminded me of all of the good things people said to me in the past, as well as some things I need to hear today like, “don’t apologize!” — Cessily Thalacker, Artist/teacher

Rob Maniscalco is a distinguished artist, writer, art teacher, playwright and actor. I applaud him for that. As you might expect, I am a tough critic. I think your book will be a success! The Power of Positive Painting gives the reader many valuable insights. — Jack Faragasso, Author of The Student’s Guide to Painting,

I never thought I could be much of a painter but now I’m interested in giving it a try. I bought this book to help me. What a great decision! It gives anyone, regardless of experience, great help in creating an interesting painting, from the basics of sketching, proportion, to color and lighting, plus more. I can’t recommend it enough! — Sue Jaissle Williams

Just need to let you know how much I enjoyed your introduction to me of the Reilly Method of Paining and your Power Palette approach to predetermining hues and values! Freedom is the result of this structure! As we paint and enter the flow of the visual communication between the artist and the model, having the power palette permits color selections and modification without gaps in the flow. The Creative Energy can stay higher! Thank you for keeping the Masters’ Secrets alive for a new generation of painters! — Cessily Minda, Artist and Teacher

It’s like a Kleig Light went off in my head! Everything I ever learned anywhere suddenly made sense! Value is Key! I am no longer plagued by muddy color! You told me you would help me and you did! — Karen Silvestro

IF I was an artist, especially a painter, I would insist The Power of Positive Painting goes into the curriculum in every art school in the country. Amazingly thorough, insightful, and full of views from 30,000 all the way down to the runway. — Doug Crowe

I probably learned more reading The P³ than I did throughout 6 years of college. When it comes to painting technique. I recommend Robert’s teachings highly.— Ann Garavaglia

I am so pleased with the improvement in my painting that was visible immediately as a result of Robert’s instructional painting video. You do the critiques so candidly and without allowing personalities to effect your comments. I will certainly recommend you and your workshops whenever possible. — Brenda Delle

Well you are not only a very gifted painter, but an effective inspirational teacher. Your instruction is sound and you are very good at articulating what you are trying to explain. Well I’ve been under your influence all day as I started my judge painting. From a practical aspect, I am developing a new approach as I am a 60% acrylic painter, a 37% watercolor painter and a 3% oil painter. I also have years of doing things my way and they are habits, not necessarily all good ones either, however they have served me over the years. Well, let me wrap this up by saying that I really think you are the real deal, and I’ve enjoyed your instruction. Years of theater has set you up for making a cool video and it’s great that you combine all of those skills at once. – Betsy Wilson-Mahoney

I absolutely got my money’s worth! Now I know I can paint a face and all the parts will be in the right place! Painting the P3 way is a lot of fun! — Caroline Goodman

Thank you for sharing your incredible expertise and wisdom. As a portrait student, I’ve been refreshed and revived and inspired by your teaching. I’d endorse you any day! Artistically yours, — Mary Hoffman

Put Robert’s lifetime of study to work for you because the best way to learn is to learn what a master has discovered, so they can save you at least some of the headaches. You cannot avoid them all, but Robert deeply understands the how of teaching, and what you must go through to learn. The Power of Positive Painting focuses on the craft aspect of painting. Robert explores that place between art and craft and science with courage and sensitivity. —Eric Rhoads, founder and publisher of  Fine Art Connoisseur and Plein Air magazines.

This  The Power of Positive Painting presents an organized comprehensive overview of a broad variety of techniques and ideas which make up the systematic approach to representational painting developed by the late Frank Reilly. It serves as an excellent refresher course for those who have previously studied Reilly’s teachings in great depth, and it’s a good basic introduction for those artists who have not been so privileged. The underlying principles that informed Reilly’s teachings are clearly evident in the works of history’s greatest master painters. —  Marvin Mattelson, award winning portrait artist and educator

Being unemployed due to Corona virus I decided to take up a new hobby and try painting. I bought the necessary supplies, sketched out several ideas, plotted my canvas…and froze, afraid to place the paint on the canvas for months. This week I read The Power of Positive Painting and very early on Rob eased my fears with his good humored and memorable approach to sharing a lifetime of knowledge. I recommend this book highly for anyone interested in painting, either as a new hobby, or for more experienced painters ready to garner great tips from a Master Artist. Thank you Rob for showing me a new way to see.— Dawn Campion

I met Rob Maniscalco in 2004, when he hosted Art Beat Detroit, a local weekly PBS series that was broadcast on WTVS Public Television.  In 36 episodes that ran from 2003 to 2005, Rob introduced and profiled Detroit-based artists in their studios. I was one of his interviewees in 2004, when I had a studio in the 4731 Gallery building northwest of downtown.

As an art show host, his manner seemed a bit odd to me, kind of offbeat, like a showman’s.  It was the very opposite of what I had expected given my early exposure to PBS artists Bill Alexander (The Magic of Oil Painting, 1974-1982) and Bob Ross (The Joy of Painting, 1983-1994). While I never really was impressed by their work, they did define for me the manner in which I thought TV artists should conduct themselves. Not Rob. As with his art, Rob had his own approach.

I did know that Rob was a practicing artist but was unaware that he also had had formal training as an actor, director and playwright. Looking back, I would say that that served him well as an entertainment host for a TV show about artists, each of whom had their own quirks and uniquenesses. As I learned more about him, in particular about Rob the artist, my first impression faded…not entirely; His wit, puns and penchant for surprise continue to amuse, for I, too, have acting, writing and directing within my artistic repertoire.

What I discovered about Rob is that before much formal training, his father, portrait artist Joseph Maniscalco, provided formable lessons in their unique style of painting. Joseph was schooled in the (Frank) Reilly Method, which emphasized a value-based palette. His ability to render also was steeped in the traditions of Rembrandt, Velazquez, Hals and Sargent. So, it is not surprising that color or hue is inherent in the signature Rob Maniscalco style today. When you look at a Maniscalco painting, father’s or son’s, the influences are apparent in how light and form are used to create mood or in revealing a subject’s character.  Another inherent aspect of a Maniscalco portrait or in other work even of animals is the detail within the subject’s eyes, a reveal of the soul it is often said.

Rob, the actor/painter describes himself as an Expressive Realist, no doubt drawing (pun intended) from both art and theatre backgrounds. Every artist is categorized one way or another, so I guess his descriptor is as fitting as any other. Simply put, in all genres of landscape, figure, and still-life, I would summarize Rob’s work as a blend of amorphous, colorful backgrounds with distinctly rendered subjects and foregrounds: simultaneously expressive and realistic, with an employ of strong side-lighting to define and render shapes. He is not timid when it comes to laying on the paint evidencing his mastery of brushstroke and use of impasto.

I believe that artists must be willing to leave what they know and attempt to push forward, to explore and extend their knowledge yet not having to surrender what they’ve accomplished or achieved.  While doing what he knows best – portraits – Rob is unafraid to step out from what he excels at, to express in paint in multiple ways. Even in his quasi-Daliesque/surreal works or pure abstractions, the Expressive/Realist will tell a story, or present his point of view, or manifest an emotion based in the Maniscalco tradition.

The 32 pieces in his exhibition, “Quench,” on view through March 26, at the Grosse Pointe (Mich.) Artists Association, retrospectively demonstrate his lingering thirst to make and teach art. Yes, Rob also is an instructor, passing along his knowledge as a painter and artist and TV host. His exhibition features recent works as well as some of his favorite landscapes, still lifes and portraitures.  In each, the Maniscalco signature of hue, light and form is amply revealed.

Victor Pytko
Detroit. Mich. 48207

Here’s a short video created in 2014 by my friend, Victor Pytko.  “The last Artist” is a witty, sharp critique of our society’s throw away culture. We no longer seem to value original artwork. Our image driven, selfie obsessed society cares little for the original work of the creative, postulating that we have so many images we no longer need artists to create more, something myself and other creatives have been railing about for years. This satirical account of the last artist bites hard into the superficiality of our culture, imagining a world without artists. Why own an original with so many ways to experience (steal) the image? Because one is real, the other is imitation.

Hello! Thanks for the email! I really enjoyed your Portrait Demo of Larry at the Goose Creek Art League. I’d love to take one of your classes one day! I couldn’t believe how fast you did that. Thank you for your comments on my 2 paintings at the G.C.A. L. Art Exhibit hanging in the Activities Center now. And thanks for the 1st place in Oils for the attached photo. Your comment on my beach scene was right on regarding my lack of detail (modeling I think was the word you used). I did buy your P3 book the evening of your demo and I’ve started reading it. Hoping to have some more time to delve into it more when I’m on vacation in May. Sharon Mills

What would happen if Vincent Van Gogh showed up in New York City today? That’s the pretext for the play “Vincent John Doe,” which just completed a three-day Piccolo Spoleto Festival run at the City Gallery.

Charleston painter and actor Robert Maniscalco plays Van Gogh Vincent John Doe) in the Big Apple. His character is arrested and assumed to be mentally ill. He meets with therapists and fellow patients who challenge the definition of “the crazy artist.”

After escaping the hospital, he exploits the contemporary commercial art market by painting — Maniscalco creates two works during the show, accompanied by music (Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata) performed by his brother James Maniscalco.

“Where is home?” Vincent John Doe is asking.

Blurring the boundaries of theater, music and visual art, the play, written by Robert Maniscalco, transforms abstract philosophical ideas into a visual experience that explores artistic temperament and commercialization.

Reviewer Chunzi Shi is a Goldring Arts Journalist at Syracuse University.

Totally agree- Leyla is so professional and smooth talking creating such a comfortable atmosphere for you to expertly answer her great questions. I hope that this is just the beginning of many many more interviews for you. Besides your great and warm personality and amazing acting skills, your talent as an artist is outstanding and you deserve all the recognition that comes your way. Wishing you continued great artistic success stories! Bari Berger Engel