Robert Lewis Clark:

Biography

Robert Lewis Clark is a Chicago artist—born and raised—working in mixed media.  At five years old, his father would take him to help paint houses; and there he discovered his love of making art.

Throughout his teens and early adulthood, Robert drew comic book characters and created street art with his breakdancing crew.  Eventually, Robert left his day job at the Chicago Tribune to devote himself full time to his art. Shortly following this decision and his participation in numerous art fairs, the newly launched STEELElife Gallery invited Robert to participate in a group show at his new gallery.  This show and others that followed solidified Robert’s place in the Chicago art community.

Robert’s work has won an award in the Museum of Science and Industry’s Black Creativity exhibit.  Robert has also won the Black Excellence Award for outstanding achievement in visual arts.

Artist Statement

My practice involves going beyond just manipulating color to make work.  Through my art, I express feelings, thoughts and emotions.  I seek the beauty in everything I come across, especially the every day: a bent screw, a crushed can.  My art is influenced by what I see, what I hear, what I imagine; my creation has many influences.  There are no limits to what flows through me to make my art.

Series of Command by Black

We are all faced with hurdles, to face, to overcome

Black is strength.

Black is resilience.

Environment is constant.

Chaos is consistent.

Push forward

Prevail

…make the most of what you have.