Robert O’Hair is a multifaceted artist—painter, writer, musician, photographer—whose
passions also include sailing, cycling, and a lifelong pursuit of learning. A keen observer of human
nature (and Bob Dylan fan) he has called Covington home since 2005, when he and his wife,
Phyllis, relocated after their New Orleans residence was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina.
With over 35 years experience as graphic designer, art director, writer, and creative
director, Robert shaped the fields of marketing, advertising, and public relations. He collaborated
with local and national firms to enhance brand recognition and broaden market reach.
From 2000 to 2014, he ran a New Orleans-based design studio, serving clients such as
Emeril’s, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, GW Fins, NYU Stern School of Business, International
Conference Management and CinéMed, among others. His career also includes a 15-year tenure at
Duke Unlimited Advertising (1986–2000), preceded by his roles at Peter Mayer Advertising
(1983-86), and Royal Arts Studio (1978–82).
Robert’s formal education spans DePauw University in Indiana, the University of New
Orleans, and the John McCrady School of Fine and Applied Art in New Orleans (1974–1980),
complemented by numerous professional development courses and workshops.
Since 1984, when he bought his first Macintosh he has embraced the Apple OS, and today
he is captivated by AI and computer learning—having witnessed the rise of personal computers,
the internet, and the digital revolution firsthand.
Currently, Robert works in traditional drawing and painting techniques, capturing urban
and natural landscapes, portraits, and still-life subjects. An amateur art historian and cultural
anthropology enthusiast, he thrives in art groups, classes, and lectures. His days are filled with
walks, biking along the lakefront, hiking the Tammany Trace, and exploring Fontainebleau Park.
He is a regular volunteer at Saint Joseph Abbey’s Art Works and the Abbee Honey House, and in
2024 after meeting Kim Zabbia he began attending events at Twin Steeples.
Artist Statement:
My primary focus is landscape painting in oils. I also explore by drawing, watercolor, pastel and
printmaking. I am driven by the thrill of discovering, seeing and recording a glimpse of beauty;
inspired by witnessing the interplay of light and shadow, color, or the quiet resilience of nature.
robertohair.com
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