Robert Wilson

As a contemporary fine art photographic artist, Robert has always felt he was one of the lucky ones to be able to hone his artistic side while heading up the creative departments of some of the country’s largest and most respected retailers. Currently, Robert is an adjunct instructor of photography in the James Pearson Duffy Department of Art, Art History and Design at Wayne State University. He has studied at Indiana’s Ball State University, Houston’s Glassel School of Art, New York’s International Center of Photography and Fashion Institute of Technology, and the Savannah College of Art and Design, where he received his Masters in Fine Art. 

Robert asserts that public art plays a crucial role in shaping the cultural and emotional fabric of a city. It fosters connections among individuals, cultivates a sense of belonging, and contributes to the distinct character of neighborhoods, thereby enhancing the vibrancy of Royal Oak as a place to live, work, and visit. Art has the power to transform ordinary spaces into dynamic environments that inspire engagement, spark creativity, and encourage dialogue. Moreover, it serves as a platform for diverse voices, enriching the community and promoting a shared sense of pride in public spaces.

In periods of challenge or transition, Robert views art as a steadfast reminder of resilience, creativity, and communal strength. It not only invites reflection but also nurtures economic and social cohesion, vital to the continued well-being and vitality of the city. While Robert holds fine art photography in particular esteem for its capacity to provoke social discourse and drive change, he believes contemporary art in all its forms has the potential to influence positive transformation on a broader scale.