About the Artist
Robert R. Williams is a portrait artist working primarily in pastel and oil and is known for his realistic likenesses and vibrant, lifelike skin tones. His work reflects a lifelong fascination with drawing the human face—an interest that began in childhood and has guided his artistic focus ever since.
Before devoting himself fully to art, Robert spent nearly 25 years as an electrical engineer with Whirlpool Corporation. Although his professional path initially followed science and engineering, drawing and painting remained a constant presence in his life. After retiring in 2001, he began pursuing his art full time.
Today, Robert’s primary focus remains portraiture in pastel and oil, although he continues to explore other media and has recently begun working in sculpture. He is a member of several regional and national art organizations, including the Portrait Society of America, and remains actively involved in the local arts community.
For more than 20 years, Robert has shared his knowledge as an instructor, teaching portrait drawing and painting in charcoal, pastel, and oil. In addition to teaching at the Box Factory, he has led classes and workshops at several regional art centers, including the Buchanan Art Center, Studio Arts Center in South Bend, and the Southern Shores Art Association in Michigan City.
Robert’s work has been exhibited in numerous juried art fairs and galleries across Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, including the Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff, Leeper Park Art Fair, and the Lubeznik Arts Festival. He has also presented solo exhibitions at the Box Factory for the Arts, Lake Michigan College, and other regional galleries. His work has received multiple awards in juried shows, including Best of Show, Best Drawing, and Best Pastel honors.
Robert has also played an important role in the development of the Box Factory for the Arts. As president of the Berrien Artist Guild, he helped lead the effort to acquire and transform the historic Williams Brothers Box Factory into the thriving arts center it is today. In 2008, the front gallery was named in his honor in recognition of his leadership and vision.
Today, Robert’s primary focus remains portraiture in pastel and oil, although he continues to explore other media and has recently begun working in sculpture. He is a member of several regional and national art organizations, including the Portrait Society of America, and remains actively involved in the local arts community.
Commissions
A commissioned portrait is a lasting way to celebrate the people and moments that matter most. Robert welcomes the opportunity to discuss your vision and create a portrait you'll treasure for generations. If you'd like to commission a portrait, please reach out!
