Harlan Hubbard exhibition opens

The life and work of Harlan Hubbard were honored during an October 19th ceremony in the Duggan Library. “Harlan Hubbard, Life as Art” officially opened the College’s exhibition of Hubbard’s artwork.

A celebrated artist and writer, Hubbard was revered in the region for his practice of sustainable living. Along with his wife, Anna, the couple led a modest existence on the banks of the Ohio River for more than 40 years. Rejecting the use of modern conveniences, the Hubbards lived off the land with no electricity or running water in their shantyboat or rustic cabin.

“Harlan Hubbard, Life as Art” featured comments by Robert Rosenthal, professor emeritus of philosophy and Hubbard scholar, and Jessica Whitehead ’11, who has done extensive thesis work on the artist.

Born January 4th, 1900, Hubbard spent most of his life creating art, including paintings, watercolors and woodcuts. His works are characterized by rustic images and handmade frames often constructed from driftwood and other materials found on the river bank.

Hubbard is credited for creating more than 1,000 pieces. The College’s collection of his works, curated by Hannah Miller ’20, includes 31 pieces. All are now on permanent display in the Duggan Library.