Robert Dickerson (1924–2015) was a prominent Australian artist known for his evocative depictions of the human figure and his contributions to the Australian art scene. He had a distinctive figurative style, often marked by melancholic and solitary figures, depicted with elongated limbs and sombre expressions that conveyed a sense of emotional depth and vulnerability. Born in Sydney, Dickerson was largely self-taught and began his career as an artist after working in various jobs, including professional boxing, during his youth. He started painting in the late 1940s, and by the 1950s, he had emerged as a significant figure in the Australian art scene.
Dickerson's work is often characterized by its focus on the human form, exploring themes of identity, isolation, and the human condition. He gained recognition for his portraits and nudes, which were shaped by his unique style that combined elements of expressionism and realism.
He studied at the Sydney Technical College and later worked as an art teacher. Over his career, Dickerson was involved in various exhibitions, and his works are held in numerous collections, including the National Gallery of Australia and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. He was also a founding member of the Australian Society of Portrait Artists.
A member of the Antipodeans, a group of Australian artists who opposed the dominance of abstract expressionism, Dickerson advocated for figurative art. His work received significant recognition in both Australia and internationally, and he continued to paint prolifically throughout his life.
His significant contributions to art earned him accolades, and he continued to influence upcoming artists until his later years. Dickerson's legacy is celebrated for capturing the nuances of the human spirit in his artwork. Robert Dickerson's legacy is that of a painter who deeply connected with the human condition, bringing to life the quiet moments of ordinary people with empathy and a keen eye for the emotional undercurrents of modern life.
See available works (at time of writing) by Robert Dickerson Here.
