Aldro Thompson Hibbard (August 25, 1886 - November 12, 1972) was a prominent American plein air painter. He was born in Falmouth, MA, but lived most of his life in Rockport, MA. His depictions of snowy landscapes, particularly in Vermont are highly regarded. Hibbard worked in oil; watercolor just couldn't be used in January & February in the mountains of Vermont.

In 1909, Aldro Hibbard entered the Boston Museum School of Art. Among his instructors were among Boston's most important artists: Frank Benson, Frederick Bosley and Edmund Tarbell. Hibbard excelled and received a scholarship for further study in Europe upon graduation. It is said that he discovered his talent for snow scenes when caught in a blizzard in the mountains near Madrid.

Hibbard was a member of many American art organizations, including the Rockport Art Association, the North Shore Art Association, and many others. He was an Academician in the National Academy of Design.

Hibbard influenced many Rockport artists including Emil Gruppe, Tom Nicholas, Paul Strisik, Roger Curtis, and many others.

His paintings are in many museums, corporations and other prominent private collections.

Aldro Hibbard is building an impressive auction record. His world record at auction occurred on 2/3/12 at Skinner Auctioneers & Appraisers, when 'Winter in New England, Probably a West River, Vermont View', estimated at $25,000-35,000 sold for $88,875. Along with Anthony Thieme, Hibbard is generally regarded as the most expensive 'Rockport' painter at auction.

References

• A.T. Hibbard, N.A.: Artist in Two Worlds, by John L. Cooley, published 1968.
• Rockport Sketchbook, by John L. Cooley, published 1965.
• "Aldro T. Hibbard, Painter of New England Winters," American Artist June 1940.
• "The Legacy of Cape Ann," by James Keny, American Art Review, Oct./Nov. 1995.
• A New View of Aldro Hibbard, by Charles Movalli, American Artist, May 1979.
• Art For All, The Cape Ann School, by Lisa B. Martin.
• The Inspiration of Cape Ann, by Tom Davies, Rockport Art Association, 1993.
• Gloucester, Views of the Art Colony By American Masters, by R.H. Love, R.H. Love Galleries Oct./Nov. 1991