Meet Artist Robert
A skilled portraitist and avid surfer, Robert von Kepner’s creative journey has been inspired by the natural world around him since adolescence. With his innate inclination for capturing the essence of individuals and a keen eye for detail, Robert found his true calling in the intricate world of portrait illustration in the classical style of chiaroscuro. He primarily uses graphite and the effect of monochromatic contrast in his artwork. Through this technique, he is able to exude vivid emotions from the subjects in his drawings, representing distress, strength, and faith.
Beyond paper and pencil, Robert pursued additional creative endeavors while living in California’s coastal regions of Dana Point, Big Sur, and Malibu. He spent many years honing his craft as a chef, creating exquisite fine cuisine in five-star dining establishments. Robert’s successful career as a chef and restauranteur came to an end when he was ready to reunite with his love for poetry and portraiture.
Now settled on the quiet coastline of Jenner by the Sea, Robert has eliminated digital distractions from his environment and is able to focus deeply on his message to mankind through art. His emotive portraits connect viewers with his subjects and invite them to contemplate relationships with the Eternal and with one another.
Robert’s work earned acclaim locally and nationally. From scholarship awards offered by CBS Studios to solo exhibitions and book publications, Robert’s visual works and writings have a prolific impact on all who experience them.
A statement from Robert…
In the utilization of my heart, hand, and mind, I endeavor to create fine art as a metaphor for all things relative to the current, historical, and spiritual world.
The injustices towards others in the family of mankind are obvious & blatant, even still, incessant by thought fraught with guile and a disregard for personal integrity.
It is my sincere pursuit to share gifts given to me as an artist to a world embroiled in adversity and turmoil.
These ‘gifts’ are in the form of Truth articulated in drawings that have been manifested with the implement of a 2B graphite pencil on paper and in the classical style of chiaroscuro.
It is my utmost hope that others may perceive an insightful beauty in the works that purposely attempt to open one’s eyes to the Eternal, and in turn, touch the human heart.
Artist Interview – Robert
Join us in this artist interview as masterful portrait artist, Robert Vonkepner, shares insights into his creative process and the emotive power of his bold, contrasting drawings.
“What was your most challenging piece and why?”
The most challenging piece was ‘Truth & Justice’. This difficulty was in the aged face of deep wrinkles and dark shadows, of the deep set eyes in profound contemplation amid hollow cheeks and the source of light coming from above the figure.
“What message are you trying to convey in your work?”
That truth, love, and justice is derived from the Divine, as is wisdom.
“What emotions are expressed in your art?”
Doubt, elation, anguish, and yearning.
“What are your 3 go-to materials for making art?”
Paper, 2B pencil, and eraser.
“Who is your favorite iconic artist?”
Leonardo Da Vinci
“In your studio, do you listen to music or a podcast while you create? Or do you prefer silence?”
As I create, I enjoy listening to National Public Radio/NPR and Fusion Jazz.
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Shop Robert’s art here:
‘1st Timothy ch.4 vs.7’ (Print)
‘As a Face is Reflected in Water, so the Heart Reflects the Real Person’ (Print)
‘Ebony Femininity’ (Print)
‘Faith Calling’ (Print)
‘For She is My Life’ (Print)
‘Holding Onto Thy Word’ (Print)
‘Lord!!!’ (Print)
‘The Lord Hath Touched Me’ (Print)
‘The Strength of Femininity’ (Print)
Robert’s journey from world-class chef in busy cities to fine artist in his peaceful oasis is refreshing and inspiring. Even in the middle of our fast and busy lifestyles, we can dedicate time to slow down and ignite our creativity with simply a paper and pencil.
Robert’s sketches/prints are so powerful. The detail in his work, very intricate and makes the subject seem as if they could move on the page. Really love his work.