The late Robert Schlegel lived and worked is Banks, Oregon. Finding inspiration in his lush surroundings and the attempts of men to tame the landscape, Schlegel attempted to tame the uncharted land between realism and abstraction. Working from life, he painted his personal interpretation of the objects and forms he saw in the natural world.

Because he focused on painting shadows and highlights, contrast forms the foundation of his paintings. While his compositions may seem static, his use of textured brush strokes, complementary colors and talent of perception enliven his works until they are a torrent of sensations. With this precarious energy the artist hoped to convey his response to the sensitivity of the land on which we live. Often times Schlegel painted houses that were not integrated into the landscape but look as though they have just been lightly set there, ready to be relocated at any moment.

He was influenced early on by the works of Winslow Homer, Wyeth, and others in the Brandywine School; Edward Hopper’s work continued to be an inspiration, as were the landscape works of William Beckman, Robert Bechtle’s architectural realism, the color of Wolf Kahn, and the atmosphere of Russell Chatham.

Schlegel first began exhibiting pen and ink drawings in 1973 and has since expanded his medium to include oil, acrylic, printmaking and collage. His pieces have been shown across the Pacific Northwest and he was included in the Artist of Oregon exhibition at the Portland Art Museum.

Robert Schlegel passed away in 2021. A beloved artist at Dana Gallery for many years, Bob is truly missed. His artwork is a beautiful legacy.