The downtown art world this week is mourning the loss of the art dealer known as Hudson, the founder of Feature Inc. In the last several years, the gallery has been located on the Lower East Side. As Gallerist reported, Hudson died Sunday at the age of 63; he lived with HIV for many years, but according to his longtime friend, Jimi Dams (of Envoy Enterprises on Rivington Street), he died unexpectedly of natural causes.
Writing on New York Magazine’s web site, art critic Jerry Saltz offered these thoughts:
Hudson — the founder of the Feature Inc. gallery, who went by one name — was one of the greatest of his generation, a generation that was rich in art-dealer talent… He was one of the last of his kind, and among the smartest, wittiest, and most visionary gallerists I’ve ever known — old-school in that he almost seemed not to want to be a dealer. He just loved art and artists… Hudson loved engaging with those who engaged with him. He was always available for conversation. I think I loved him. I know I’m in shock and despondent that he’s gone. The art world has lost a colossal spirit.
Feature moved to a space on the Bowery in 2008, and at the end of 2009 relocated to 131 Allen St.
