b. 1927 d. 2018
Site Affiliation: Reuben Hale House
Reuben Hale was a prolific artist whose career spanned nine decades and a wide range of disciplines, from painting to photography, holography, sculpture, and more. Born in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, he was recognized for his artistic gift almost as soon as he could hold a pencil.
Hale earned his BFA at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago then pursued graduate studies at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. With teachers such as Al Newbill, Hans Hofmann, Paul Burlin, David Slivka, and Reuben Nakian, Hale’s work evolved from realism to abstract expressionism, to a lasting focus on figurative art and female empowerment in his “Emerging Woman” series. His fascination with kinetic and optical art led to groundbreaking holography and glass sculpture.
A devoted artist-educator, Hale transformed Florida’s Palm Beach Junior College into a cultural hub, establishing advanced art programs, premier facilities, and co-founding influential local arts institutions.
Primary Medium: Sculpture
Primary Stylistic Term: Figurative Expressionism
Fun Fact: In the early 1960s, Hale co-designed and crafted a Ferrari-inspired fiberglass sports car, tailored for enthusiasts building on a modified 1956 Chevy chassis.