Local Artist Robert Sundholm Donates Paintings to Military Veterans

Local Artist Donates Paintings

When Veteran Outreach Counselor, Rebecca Miller Pringle, with the Women’s Rights Information Center in Englewood, went searching for paintings by a woman artist or women subjects, she did not anticipate the blessing she received.  “God works in mysterious ways” is what one friend told her.  Rebecca was dropping off flyers at Woodcliff Community Church in North Bergen and happened to notice the church’s thrift store.  Unfortunately the store happened to be closed that day, but her brother, Artie Parrilla, the church’s youth leader, remembered there were two boxes of paintings in the basement.  They counted over 100 paintings which were donated to the church but who was the artist? Together they journeyed in search of the artist.

Meanwhile Rebecca had selected 19 paintings to display at the Women’s Rights Information Center in honor of Women’s History Month.  After many phone calls and dialogue, the mystery was solved.  The artist was none other than North Bergen resident, Robert Sundholm. Self taught and inspired by the encouragement of his friends and co-workers, Robert has created hundreds of photographs, watercolors, and paintings for his collection.  Through the process Robert has created his own unique style and a strong eye for detail that has earned him recognition and awards for two consecutive years at the Hudson County Senior Art Shows. Robert says, "I enjoy my art and I am learning every time I pick up a brush and paint, and that's often!" 

When Rebecca shared with Robert how he was tracked down, Robert knew his work did not go un-noticed. He was so touched by the story that he went on to donate over 100 paintings to Rebecca for her veterans.  Rebecca was elated when she heard the news. In addition, Robert painted two additional paintings for Rebecca in honor of Women’s History Month; one of Molly Pitcher in the American Revolution where she handled a canon and in the second, a female marine helping a young child. Rebecca is planning a meet and greet with local veterans in order for them to stop by the center and select a painting of their choice.  Robert wants to give back to veterans who have served the Country. “My gift is from the heart” says Robert.  For more information about Robert Sundholm or to purchase any of his paintings call Robert at 201-868-7210.  To contact Rebecca at the Women’s Rights Information Center call 201-568-1166.