A native of Nebraska, Roger Carlilse came to Arkansas State University in 1974, where he teaches drawing and painting in the Art Department. He earned his BFA and MFA from the University of Nebraska. His work has been shown in major competitions throughtout the country, including Arts for the Parks National Competition in Jackson Hole, WY. His work has won major commissions and prizes. He was commissioned to design the Arkansas Sesquintennial Stamp in 1986 for the U.S. Postal Service and numerous collector panels for the U.S. Postal Commemorative Society. Carlisle's works are found in many public and private collections.

The artist works in oil, acrylic, pastels, and watercolor. His striking landscapes have a broad range of vibrant color, mood, and style.