Meet Basil Watson, Gwinnett sculptor who created MLK statue in Atlanta, at Hudgens Center

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Basil Watson emigrated to the United States in 2002, setting up a home and studio in Lawrenceville.

In addition to creating the local Hope Moving Forward monument of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Watson’s works have honored John Lewis, Queen Elizabeth II, Usain Bolt and others around the world.

Visitors to the Hudgens Center for the Arts, Fowler Gallery, can check out “My People: The Drawings and Sculpture of Basil Watson.” The free exhibit is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays-Thursdays through April 15.

On March 4 and April 1, the artist himself will conduct guided tours of the exhibit. Watson will also be on hand for a book signing on March 25. The closing reception for the exhibit will be 6-9 p.m. April 15.

The Hudgens Center is at 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Building 300, Duluth, GA 30097.