Rene Robles is a Filipino painter whose philosophy of “Art for All” and founding of the “Assertionism” movement have defined his career. Assertionism emphasizes art as a force of conviction, where painting asserts meaning, freedom, and human dignity.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Santo Tomas and has been exhibiting his art since the 1970s. Robles furthered his studies at the National Academy of Design and the Art Students League in New York City, immersing himself in international art circles while developing his own distinct voice.
Robles has held solo exhibitions across the globe, including the Kunst und Ausstellungshalle in Bonn, the Stadt Museum in Düsseldorf, the Museo Nacional de Antropología in Madrid, the Chelsea Gallery in London, the Charles and Emma Frye Art Museum in Washington D.C., the Sunrise Gallery in Las Vegas, the Baron Arts Center in New Jersey, the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Los Angeles, Gallery 7 in Toronto, the National Gallery of Thailand, and the International Exhibition and Convention Center in Hong Kong.
His paintings are recognized for their bold use of color, dynamic brushwork, and symbolic imagery, often reflecting themes of justice, equality, and accessibility. His philosophy insists that art is not only for the elite but for everyone, a message that resonates strongly in his exhibitions and writings.
Among the books on his art is Private as Thought, authored by Cid Reyes, which documents Robles’ creative journey and philosophy.
