The Watercolors of Harlan Hubbard

Harlan Hubbard's watercolor paintings are some of the best evidence of his place in the history of landscape painting, but they remain his least-studied artworks. The Watercolors of Harlan Hubbard argues his place in the art historical canon and highlights the artist's own voice, with more than 200 watercolors interspersed with anecdotes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2022
Publisher: The University Press of Kentucky

Harlan Hubbard (1900-1988), a Kentucky writer, environmentalist, and artist, dedicated numerous years to the revival and rediscovery of the vanishing language of landscape in his watercolor paintings. Renowned for their evocative sense of drifting movement and their portrayal of the uncomplicated way of life for which Hubbard was renowned, these artworks inexplicably remain his least-studied creations, despite being some of the finest evidence of his place in the history of landscape painting.

The Watercolors of Harlan Hubbard not only establishes Hubbard's significant position within the art historical framework but also delves into the artist's distinctive voice. Within this remarkable collection, over 200 watercolors are interspersed with anecdotes, offering a personal reflection on the profound impact that Hubbard's work has had on the lives of those who knew him.

Hubbard's watercolors capture the essence of nature, showcasing his profound connection with the natural world. Through his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to convey the beauty and tranquility of landscapes, he invites viewers to immerse themselves in the serene and timeless landscapes he depicted.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Hubbard's watercolors is his ability to capture the fleeting moments of light and atmosphere. His paintings evoke a sense of movement and ephemerality, as if the landscapes he painted were constantly shifting and changing. This sense of dynamism adds a layer of depth and complexity to his artworks, making them truly captivating.

In addition to their visual appeal, Hubbard's watercolors also serve as a testament to his dedication to preserving the natural environment. His paintings often depict the landscapes of his native Kentucky, and he used them as a means to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship.

Through his watercolors, Hubbard sought to capture the essence of the American landscape and the simple way of life that it represents. His paintings evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for a time when the world was less complex and more connected to nature. They remind us of the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations and the value of living in harmony with the environment.

Despite the recognition that Hubbard's watercolors have received, they remain relatively understudied compared to his other works. This is a shame, as his watercolors are some of the finest examples of landscape painting in the 20th century. They offer a unique perspective on the American landscape and the human experience, and they deserve to be further explored and appreciated by art enthusiasts and scholars alike.

In conclusion, the Watercolors of Harlan Hubbard are a testament to the artist's talent, dedication, and commitment to the revival and rediscovery of the language of landscape. Through his meticulous attention to detail, his ability to capture the fleeting moments of light and atmosphere, and his advocacy for environmental preservation, Hubbard's watercolors offer a profound meditation on the human experience and the natural world. These artworks deserve to be further studied and celebrated for their enduring beauty and significance.

Dimension: 254 x 203 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813179766