Robert Sticker's interest in the sea and ships began as a boy on Staten Island where he grew up, and as a World War II navy pilot this fascination continued to grow. He followed his wartime duty with five years of study with Frank J. Reilly at the Art Students League, and his work began to get serious recognition. Deciding to direct his talent toward marine art came naturally for him. Painting a variety of themes from the Revolutionary War, The War of 1812, and whaling scenes, he followed with his extraordinary series of inland waterway steamboats.

After carefully researching each of his planned paintings to insure historical accuracy, he begins a series of pencil sketches. Constantly changing his composition to make sure the painting will work both artistically and historically, Sticker begins to paint what he feels will lead to the final work of art. Whether it be the dock of New Orleans, the harbor in Pittsburgh, or Custer's 7th Cavalry breaking camp, one is always impressed with his accurate representation of these moments in history.

Taking from five to ten weeks to complete a painting, Sticker seems to have found the delicate balance between composition and abstraction. Robert Sticker's paintings can be found in private and corporate collections throughout the country. He also was instrumental in founding the American Society of Marine Artists.