22 January 3 • 2019
jn

I

n the middle of a hectic 1970s day while 
attending Wayne State University Law School, 
Robert Jacobs decided he needed a break, and 
the nearby Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) came to 
mind.
Sure enough, the paintings and sculptures — 
classical and contemporary — briefly diverted his 
attention into an impressive realm. 
His appreciation for art had evolved 
through visits to many museums 
during worldwide travels, and he 
regularly returned to explore DIA 
holdings in more depth. 
Jacobs’
 interest in the DIA collec-
tion and operations deepened after 
graduation as he entered the area 
workforce. Taking on management 
responsibilities in the family-acquired 
business, Buddy’
s Pizza (see sidebar), 
Jacobs also became active in DIA gov-
ernance. He served on various committees and 
now is a member of the board of directors.
Jacobs’
 wife, Katherine, a clinical psychologist, 
shares his interest in art and visiting art centers 

while traveling. The couple, who 
met through a yoga and meditation 
teacher, expanded their knowledge of 
Asian cultures while spending time in 
Eastern countries, where they became 
familiar with the distinctive forms of 
artistry.
The two decided to gift pieces and 
funding to the DIA so others could 
experience what means so much to 
them, and their gestures prompted DIA 
administrators to name a newly reno-
vated building section in their honor. 
The Robert and Katherine Jacobs Asian Wing, 
just opened in November, displays objects and 
themes that represent diverse art forms, cultural 
practices and systems of belief spanning thousands 
of years. Individual galleries divide up Japanese, 
Chinese, Korean, Indian and Southeast Asian art 
with an additional space that focuses on Buddhist 
art across Asia.
“Because I was born in Detroit and 
lived in the Dexter-Davison area until 
I was 11, my feelings for the city are 
very, very strong,
” says Jacobs, whose 
position as Buddy’
s CEO spanned 
25 years. “This gift is a way of giving 
back and trying to improve the qual-
ity of life for Metro Detroiters and 
travelers.
“
As someone in the restaurant busi-
ness who watches operations, I con-
tinue to notice how DIA staff members 
and volunteers are very welcoming and go out of 
their way to be inclusive to all kinds of individuals 
and groups.
“I respect the leadership and the direction 

art
arts&life

Distinctive
 Artistry

Explore a dramatic new wing for 

Asian art and culture at the DIA named

for Robert and Katherine Jacobs.

SUZANNE CHESSLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Shakyamuni as an 

Ascetic, late 1200s–

early 1300s, China. 

wood, lacquer, gold, 

paint.

RIGHT: Krishna Prepares 

for Radha’
s Visit (page 

from the Gita Govinda), 

late 1600s–1714, India 

(Mewar, Rajasthan), 

opaque watercolor, ink 

and gold on paper.

FAR RIGHT: Vishnu, 900s, 

India (Madhya Pradesh), 

sandstone.

Katherine and Robert Jacobs

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS

