For 45 years, Sun City resident Rob Dombro dedicated his life to scientific research. As a research chemist, he split his lengthy career among the petroleum, polymer, and environmental industries, with milestones taking him from the Chicago area, to Clinton Iowa then to Springfield Illinois.
Today, Dombro has exchanged his lab coat for a paintbrush, channeling that same lasting passion into a vibrant second career in photography and water media.
“My current focus is centered on blending the accuracy of photography with watercolors,” Dombro explained.
A costal motif Dombro painted on a violin for a Symphony Orchestra of Illinois auction. (Photo by Christine Such/My Sun Day News)
His transition into the art world relies on formal training and continuing education. A former student of the Art Institute of Chicago, Dombro constantly refines his skills through immersive workshops nationwide. His studies include a Santa Fe session with renowned Chicago watercolorist David Becker hosted by the Madeline Island School of the Arts, ranked among the top arts and craft schools in the nation. Past workshops were with Carol Carter, Irving Shapiro, Joye Moon and currently with Linda Wadman of the Pencil and Palette art club.
When Dombro moved to Sun City in 2007, he immediately sought out the local creative community.
“Joining the Pencil and Palette Club right after my move was a wonderful experience because the group does an absolutely fantastic job supporting local artists,” Dombro said.
Beyond his time at the studio easel, Dombro keeps a busy schedule within the community as an active member of both the Camera Club and the Tennis Club. His devotion to visual arts also extends far beyond the neighborhood, as he holds professional memberships in the Transparent Watercolor Society of America and the Chicago Chapter of the Photographic Society of America.
That devotion has translated into critical success, including multiple first, second, and third-place awards, as well as a People’s Choice award, across several competitions. Today, his work is featured in rotating mixed-media and photography exhibitions at the historic Dole Mansion in Crystal Lake. Dombro’s paintings have also been showcased at the Norris Gallery in St. Charles, the Lloyd Gallery in Decatur, and the Strawn Gallery in Jacksonville. He has even headlined solo exhibitions at the Carillon, Chatham, and Gables Fine Art Fairs throughout Central Illinois and Sun City.
“Sharing my work in these galleries across Illinois has been extremely fulfilling, but it is equally meaningful to stay connected to my roots right here at home,” Dombro said.
Dombro remembers one of his most memorable creations. In 2003, the Symphony Orchestra of Illinois hosted a unique charity auction featuring violins transformed into visual masterpieces. Among the contributors was artist Rob Dombro, who collaborated with the Sangamon Watercolor Society to paint a striking, custom design onto a violin. His artwork beautifully highlighted a peaceful coastal motif, featuring a radiant full moon and a detailed lighthouse cast across the instrument’s body. Dombro later reflected on the creative process.
He said, “Blending the visual arts with music for such a great cause allowed me to see the instrument not simply as a tool for sound, but as a medium to tell stories.”
The exceptional piece drew the attention of the orchestra’s own conductor, Karen Lynne Beck, who ultimately placed the winning bid to secure the artwork for her personal collection.
Dombro’s artwork is available for purchase at the Huntley Art Hub Gallery, located inside the Big House at The Shops on Main (11879 Main St., Huntley).
“My boxes of cards, which feature reproductions of my artwork, are quite popular,” Dombro said.
Local art admirers can also view his work at two upcoming events: the 2026 Colors of Sun City Art Gallery on September 19 and 20, and the Sun City Artisan Fair on November 1.
For Sun City resident and artist Dombro, inspiration is as simple as a rainy day, a glass of wine, and a preferred playlist on the patio.
