We are thrilled to collaborate with the Artists Association of Nantucket this year to feature their talented artist members. The AAN is a non-profit organization supporting Nantucket artists, providing educational programs in the arts, and preserving the legacy of Nantucket artists. Visit their downtown galleries at 8 Federal Street and 12 Straight Wharf, upstairs, or their studio at 24 Amelia Drive. Check out their website, or give them a call at 508-228-0722.

Meet the Artist – James A Hamilton III

James was born in 1931 in Buffalo, New York. In 1974, he obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Philadelphia University of Art, and in 1978, he received a law degree from Temple University while working as the art director and direct mail marketing manager for TV Guide’s subscription department.

In 1978, James and his wife, Laura Rizio, started the law firm of Rizio and Hamilton, PC, specializing in personal injury law. James practiced law for 37 years. James’s work has progressed from post-impressionism to pure abstraction and is in many private collections as well as national museums.

AAN: What is your artistic background/education? How did you first get interested in art?
I hold a 4-year Certificate from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and a BFA from the Philadelphia College of Art. I’ve been interested in art since grammar school.

AAN: If you could master any other medium than the one you most frequently use, what would it be?
-Print Making

AAN: What is the most inspirational/influential place on Nantucket for you in terms of your art?
-The beaches

AAN: Do you have any secret talents or unexpected hobbies? / What are your passions outside of art?
-Social Science, History. I have a Juris Doctorate.

AAN: Imagine that you have received an unlimited budget to curate your dream collection for a new gallery. Whose art/what are you including?
-Picasso, DeKooning, Stella, Pollack and Mondrian

AAN: What are you currently working on?
-A series of non-objective paintings entitled “Clockwork Oranges”

AAN: Who are three artists who have influenced your work?
-Picasso, Diebenkorn, Feinenger

AAN: What is your inspiration while producing artwork? What are you thinking of and attempting to create?
-The relationship of color and line.