12/22/2022
Robert Hal Garden, 85, born October 27, 1937, passed away peacefully with his children present on December 17, 2022. Robert was a native of West Virginia, born in Charleston. Robert found his life's passion early. Painting since the age of seven, he was a poor farm boy who made his own brushes from the tails of his dog and cat and his paints from berries, clay and objects of color from nature. Later, he earned a Master’s degree from the Ringling School of Art in Sarasota, Florida and is the founder and past President of the Corpus Christi Art Association and a life member of the Rockport Art Association. Robert had the distinction of being one of a select few entrusted in the restoration and repair of priceless old masters paintings for museums and developed his own unique line of art materials and curriculum for instruction. He established Robert Garden Art Enterprises, Inc. in 1973 and has personally taught thousands of students in his art classes and trained and certified over 150 artists in his method of teaching.
Robert was an accomplished pianist and had a passion for the outdoors. He was chosen to journey to South America to aid in seeking the Salk vaccine for the cure for polio. Author of two books and numerous videos he led students on exotic painting vacations around the world. His two favorite hobbies were fishing and gourmet cooking.
His survivors include his wife and business partner of 46 years, Susan Garden, his son Stephen Garden of San Antonio, Patricia Garden of Adairsville, Georgia, his daughter Deborah Czarnecki of Lo**ta, Texas, his stepson, Michael Rogers of San Antonio and his daughter Christen Garden of Euless, Texas.
A Celebration of Life will be held in early January. For donations in lieu of flowers, the Robert Garden Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established. This scholarship will award charitable grants to artists who will obtain Instructor Certification to teach the Robert Garden Method. Contributions can be made by using the QR code in the comments OR mailing a check to Susan Garden at 2821 Alan-A-Dale Irving, TX 75061
