Pittsburgh Artist Robert Qualters to Unveil Exhibit in Berger Gallery

Robert L. Qualters, Jr., an American painter, installation artist and printmaker, will unveil three works of art donated to the University and on exhibit at the Berger Gallery in College Hall on Sept. 25.

“We are immensely grateful to Robert Qualters for his generous donation of artwork to the Department of History,” Kristine Blair, dean of the McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts, said. “It is an honor to display these culturally significant pieces in our Berger Gallery and in doing so not only celebrate the important connection between the University and the Pittsburgh arts community but also honor the substantial legacy of Qualters’ work in representing the city’s rich industrial and social history.”

Described as “a quintessential Pittsburgh artist” by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Qualters’ figurative artwork depicts mid-century Pittsburgh neighborhoods, bridges and steel mills in vibrant colors.

Born in McKeesport, Qualters was part of the Bay Area Figurative movement of the 1950s that moved away from the style of abstract expressionism toward representational art. His artwork includes traditional paintings and murals, with many placed throughout Pittsburgh. He frequently collaborates with Pittsburgh-based artists across various disciplines.

“For decades, Robert Qualters has been at the center of western Pennsylvania’s art scene,” Dr. John Mitcham, associate professor and interim chair of the department, said. “His work appears in museums and private collections across the country and beyond. The Department of History is delighted to become ‘home’ for these three treasured pieces from Pittsburgh’s native son.”