Collection: Robert Ketchens Collection
Robert Ketchens is a social realist painter who creates layered artworks that are rich in color and symbolism. The subjects of his works are predominantly influenced by and reflect the social distinctions and complexities of the African diaspora. Ketchens’ work is rooted in traditional theory made fresh with modern applications and sensibility. He is drawn to contemporary and historical themes that are part of a larger story of dignity and humanity in black people. In his paintings, you will find visual quotes from Masters such as Diego Velasquez, Francisco Goya, Romare Bearden, and Charles White.
Robert Ketchens was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1952. Serving as a Medical Illustrator with the US Air Force, he was given the opportunity to study abroad in Wiesbaden, Germany, where he learned traditional techniques in painting. By using old world techniques as a solid foundation and mixing in modern esthetics, he has developed a very unique and distinct style. He has had solo exhibitions nationwide, including those at the Rosemary Berkel and Harry L. Crisp Museum, Fontbonne University Museum, the Margaret Harwell Museum, and the Dusable Museum in Chicago. His selected group exhibitions include the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, the Missouri History Museum in St. Louis, and the Museum Center of Records and Documents for Senegal in Senegal, West Africa, amongst others.
His work is held in numerous public and private collections, most notably the permanent collection of the Illinois State Museum, and the Missouri History Museum. In 2016 Robert Ketchens received a Purchase Award with the 22nd African American Art Exhibition in Louisville, Kentucky.
In 2017, Ketchens received a commission from the Missouri History Museum to complete four portraits of St. Louis’ African American civil rights leaders and activists, for their exhibition titled “#1 in Civil Rights: The African American Freedom Struggle in St. Louis.” These paintings remain in their permanent collection. Robert Ketchens currently lives and works in O’Fallon, Illinois.
