Capturing Beauty: Hugh Hudson's Photography Exhibition

Right before the 4th of July, Hugh Hudson was celebrating a different milestone downtown, with the opening reception for his photography at etc. Art Gallery, sponsored by Homestead Main Street. Held at 257 North Krome Avenue, the July 3rd gala drew friends, family, and fans of Hudson's work to the intimate affair showcasing his various photos of South Florida's flora and fauna, in addition to other beauty outside of the area, such as the Smoky Mountains and Grand Teton National Park.

As our resident photojournalist and local photographer, Hudson is well regarded and revered, as the crowd gathered there definitely demonstrated with handshakes and high praise for his extensive body of work throughout the years and on display, while enjoying the wine and appetizers. For Hudson, the evening and exhibition entitled ‘Here & Not Here’ was special for many reasons.

“It's really great to see your work in a gallery, said Hudson. “It's also really gratifying to see so many people come out for the reception…artists, friends, and folks that are just into art – it's really good.”

Hudson also explained how he transforms his photos into that very same art. “It's truly when you develop it later, capturing the shot is of course very important, the first step, but the digital darkroom is where we truly develop the shot and turn it from maybe a snapshot into a work of depth,” Hudson said.

Alongside Mayor Steven Losner and City Manager Zerry Ihekwaba, attendees viewed the many photos there and spoke with Hudson about his work, as one of his pieces was being purchased early on; something Hudson was extremely grateful for. “It's really great that someone else appreciates your art enough to spend money for it,” said Hudson, “always great to have that happen, it really does feel good.”

With work as valued as Hudson's, it only made sense for etc. Art Gallery General Manager Juan Martinez to have it available for an audience. “Our goal is to help the community with local artists, we are very connected with the city, with the community,” said Martinez, “we try to help.”

In doing so since opening last year, etc. holds monthly art exhibits, spotlighting area artists – as such, Hudson's work will be available for viewing and purchase throughout the rest of the month. For other artists with a desire to further their photographic profile, Hudson offered some final key bits of advice.

“Try to print and show your art,” Hudson said, “keeping those photos, even those great photos on your phone, just doesn't do it for everyone around you. Print your art, seek places to exhibit it.”

For more information on etc. Art Gallery, email them at etc.homestead@ yahoo.com. And of course, continue to follow Hudson's work right here in the South Dade News Leader!