American, b. 1955 – d. 2021
Lives and works in East Hampton, New York

Charles Waller’s multimedia compositions are inspired by folk traditions and the antiques he finds both in his travels and around his Hamptons home. The artist spent his childhood in the U.S., Central America, and England before studying illustration at the Royal College of Art in London and RISD. His illustrations have been featured in a variety of leading publications, including the New York Times and Esquire. In his fine art practice Waller begins his work with found objects, which he manipulates using his signature blend of humor, cultural commentary, and whimsy — along with nods to Surrealism and the art of René Magritte — riffing on such themes as tattoos, WWII love letters, and other Americana. “My greatest satisfaction occurs when a watch a collector laugh and get the connection,” says Waller. “Then I’ve succeeded.”

Charles Waller has exhibited his work in solo and group exhibitions in New York City and throughout New York State, in East Hampton, Syracuse, and Sag Harbor, among The Games We Play other cities. Additionally, he has participated in shows in Canada and Japan. A longtime professional illustrator for several national publications, Waller has won numerous awards for his drawings in the New York Times, Esquire, and Sports Illustrated. His fine art pieces have appeared in various publications, including Moving Art magazine, Hampton Jitney magazine, the East Hampton Star, and the New York Times, among others.

Born in California, Charles Waller grew up in South America and England. He studied English Literature and Psychology at the University of London, and Illustration at the Royal College of Art in London before earning his BFA with honors from the Rhode Island School of Design.