Robert (Bob) Hooton's diverse and innovative works utilized acrylic, oil, pastel, mixed media collage, and handmade paperworks.

Hooton's long-standing involvement with the arts began with a bachelor's degree in architectural design and a stint as U.S. Naval Construction Battalion Draftsman, during which he served as combat artist for the invasion of Iwo Jima. Hooton then lived and painted in Guatemala for four years before coming to Albuquerque to study at the University of New Mexico's College of Fine Arts.

Hooton has exhibited his work around the country and in Guatemala, and his work has been acquired by The Albuquerque Museum, the El Paso Art Museum, the Illinois State Museum, and private collectors. He is most beloved, however, for his contributions to the arts in Albuquerque. He and his wife, Peggy Hooton, owned and operated a fine craft store in Old Town for 25 years giving many emerging artists their launch into the artworld. Robert Hooton was instrumental in the establishment of The Albuquerque Museum and the founding of the New Mexico Arts and Crafts Fair. He was also the recipient of a New Mexico Art in Public Places grant and was recognized as a Distinguished Artist of Albuquerque by Albuquerque Art in Public Places. His 20-year retrospective exhibition at Coleman Gallery Contemporary Art in 1998 was honored with a prestigious Bravo Award from the Albuquerque Arts Alliance.