Robert Charles Gruppe, in the classic Renaissance tradition, benefited from a twenty year apprenticeship under his father, renowned painter Emile Gruppe at the Gloucester School of Painting. Receiving a two year scholarship from the Elizabeth Greenshield Foundation of Canada, he then studied drawing under the tutelage of sculptor George Demetrios.

Robert continues the artistic legacy of his father Emile, and grandfather, Charles P. Gruppe, in his own evolving personal style which embodies the influences of his heritage and his environment, specifically Cape Ann, Massachusetts and Naples, Florida. He records the impressions of a scene with increasingly powerful brushstrokes in his characteristic palette of vibrant colors. His paintings capture the light, movement and mood of the composition, and share with the observer a story which appears to blend the past and present, combining his family tradition with a contemporary need for a personalized statement.

Robert C. Gruppe has exhibited for over 30 years in Gloucester's noted North Shore Art Association and the Meriden Connecticut Art Association, winning numerous awards. Some of his most recent awards include the Rockport Art Association Great Gatsby Award and the Roger Curtis Memorial Award, as well as the North Shore Art Association Gortonís of Gloucester Waters of the World Award, and the Gold Medal Award. Robert's work has been shown in galleries and museums throughout the Eastern seaboard.