Exhibition Catalog Introduction
This exhibit was conceived in honor of the Quadricentennial of Henry Hudson’s journey up one of America’s greatest Rivers. There is no doubt that Hudson and the crew of his ship The Half Moon appreciated the natural splendor of the river valley that would later bear the Captain’s name. “It is as pleasant a land as one need tread upon,” wrote Hudson in his log.
In bringing together this group of artists, I sought to explore the common thread that runs through the centuries, from Hudson’s exploration in 1609, to the flourishing of the first American “School” of painting in the 1800’s, to the artists of today who continue to be inspired by the Hudson River.
My thanks go to Vindora Wixom, Director of the Arts Society of Kingston and the Exhibition Committee for hosting this exhibit. Thanks also to Emily Flynn for publicity and help with the catalog, as well as the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Commission for funding the printing of this catalog. Finally, my deepest gratitude goes to Wayne Lempka of the Samuel Dorsky Museum for his essay and continued support.
Jane Bloodgood-Abrams, Exhibtion Coordinator