Born in Brooklyn, New York, Robert Longo emerged as a prominent figure in the 1980s art scene. He studied at Buffalo State College and the Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence, Italy, before gaining widespread recognition for his multidisciplinary practice that spans drawing, photography, and filmmaking.

Longo is primarily recognized for his hyper-realistic, large-scale charcoal drawings. His work often explores themes of power, authority, and the human condition, frequently translating photographic source material into monumental monochromatic compositions that emphasize texture and dramatic lighting.

He continues to be a significant presence in contemporary art, with his works held in major museum collections worldwide. His practice remains focused on the intersection of mass media imagery and traditional fine art techniques.