Pictured is a drawing of Alix, a character in a book written by Robert Hudson.

By Darla McCammon

Last week, we introduced you to an artist who has led a very interesting life. Robert Hudson had big dreams as a boy. He eventually followed that “itch” and left his home in Indiana and moved out west, where he became a rodeo fan, cowboy and rancher for 20 years.

His artistic ability was discovered rather quickly by his new neighbors as he endeared himself to people who lived and worked in the great outdoors. He joined right in and appreciated the enormity of nature as she presented her beauty to his astonished eyes. He began capturing those dramatic moments on paper with pencil, then later in 1994 with oil paints. His talent grew and was recognized. His stories about his experiences in the west are both humorous and captivating.

Hudson is an enigma in many ways. Who would expect a rough and tumble cowboy to be a sensitive and talented artist? Or that he could pick up a cello and play Mozart with feeling and ability? Or, more recently, that he had writing talent pouring his heart into four books thus far? It is hard to find an adjective to fit him.

“It is simple, really,” said Hudson. “I am doing what I was born to do. I have known since I was very young that I would be an artist. I had no idea in what medium or what style my art would take me. I worked for years in pencil, doing portraits of western peoples and places. In 1994, I began to learn how to use oil paints. I have now done some murals over 100 feet long.”

Hudson has also done some sculpture. His home in Mentone is a prime example. He lives in a remodeled library with a gorgeous “Stonehenge” entrance where he and his wife Linda entertain.

The back also serves as his studio. Then there are his trips to fantastic fantasy with his four books. I was privileged to do some of the initial editings for his first volume “The RA’H Son Chronicles.” You will like the creativity in his books. The photo (at the top) is Hudson’s pencil drawing of Alix, one of the main characters in his books. Hudson is giving a rare opportunity to meet with him and view his work along with a chance to learn about his amazing books at his exhibit at the Lakeland Art Association that began last week. Please take time to visit his work at 302 E. Winona Ave., then attend his program on Sept. 23.

Upcoming Events

• Diane Overmyer will have an exhibit on display at Warsaw City Hall Gallery through Oct. 31.
• Hudson’s exhibit at Lakeland Art Gallery is on display through September. The gallery is open from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays. Do not forget his program at 7 p.m. Sept. 23 at the Lakeland Art Association gallery.
• The Gallery at Rua in Warsaw will have Steve Sult’s “Sitting on the Fence” collection on display now through Sept. 18.