Faces on the Edge An Exhibit in Celebration of His 102nd Birthday

Central is privileged to be part of a vibrant art community. Every month, we exhibit the work of a local artist. This month’s featured artist is painter Robert O. Thornton.

Mr. Thornton’s early style, formed with a wry edge and cynical opinion of the human psyche, extends otherwise familiar forms of anatomy and places to create darkly humorous compositions in which two-dimensional design overrides accurate portraiture. His later investigations capture even darker political themes – or provide contrast in the softness of impressionistic Rhode Island seascapes.

After serving in World War II, Mr. Thornton returned to his home state of Rhode Island In 1945.  He attended the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, married, had three children, and began to paint. He took a day job to support his young family, working as the RISD Museum photographer – a skill he learned during the war.  Mr. Thornton painted nights and weekends, developing his skill and approach to his work.

During his 37-year career at RISD, his paintings were shown annually at the RISD Faculty Exhibition until his retirement in 1992. In addition, he had many private sales along the way.  In recent years, his work has been shown primarily in the Bert Gallery located in Fox Point.