Latest News: Sneak Peeks

Title:
Hallmark Artist

Started at Hallmark:
March 1987

Started at Keepsakes:
March 1987

Hometown:
Fair Lawn, New Jersey

A
As a Hallmark Artist with over 30 years of experience, Robert’s attention to detail, three-dimensional vision and hands-on craftsmanship make him one of the best in the business. But it’s his lively personality and big imagination that really come through in his ornaments.

Robert’s first claim to Hallmark fame was in bringing Mary’s Angels to life in ornament form. Over time, he expanded his repertoire with ornaments depicting Santa Claus and Warner Bros. characters–just like this year’s Jolly Ol’ Jumper Santa, and the Devil May Hare.

Robert Chad’s drawing style took a turn when three-dimensional art captured his attention. He began sketching with the goal of making his images look like they were coming right off the page. He then tried three-dimensional pieces but never liked how they turned out.

Not one to give up on a challenge, Chad kept trying until he succeeded. Today, he makes rough sketches of Keepsake Ornaments that jump off the page and onto people’s Christmas trees.

Chad began his career at Hallmark with the start of the Mary’s Angels Keepsakes Ornament series. In 1987, Chad was a freelancer. When the Keepsake Studio asked him to bring Mary Hamilton’s designs into a new medium, he was willing to give it a try. It was trial by fire—if Hallmark liked his work, there would be a job waiting for him. Chad became inspired by Mary Hamilton’s angels and her ability to blend colors with interweaving accents and tones. It’s been a beautiful partnership ever since.

At signing events, ornament enthusiasts often share with Chad what makes Mary’s Angels such a meaningful part of their Christmas celebration. “Collectors tell me about the personal connection they have with the series. The angel often symbolizes a family member, sometimes a child, that has passed away. The robe’s color reminds them of something they loved about that special person,” Chad says. “Memories become all the more vivid during the holidays.”

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