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Local Art Collector to Speak at UC

Hamilton College Professor Discusses Hobby, Anthology

Written By Thomas Armitage '09, PR Intern

Contact - cleogrande@utica.edu

Utica, NY (03/30/2009) - Some of America’s most iconic illustrations, such as Uncle Sam, the republican elephant, the democratic donkey and the modern-day Santa Claus, were created by artist Thomas Nast. Jay Williams, professor of religious studies at Hamilton College, will discuss his avocation and personal collection of Nast’s works at Utica College on Wednesday, April 1. The event, part of the Professor Harry F. and Mary Ruth Jackson Lunch Hour series, is free, open to the public and begins at 12:30 p.m. in MacFarlane Auditorium, DePerno Hall.

One of Nast’s most enduring creations is the jolly, white-bearded, red-suited Santa Claus, a depiction that has remained largely unchanged in popular culture even today. At Utica College, Williams will display the drawings that illustrate the evolution of this character from the 1860s to 1879. He will also provide insight on the details within each piece. Williams has nearly 250 works by Nast, featuring many intricate woodblock prints. He also boasts elaborate engravings from other 19th century artists like Winslow Homer, Solomon Eytinge, Theo Davis, and A.R. Waud. The professor began collecting prints in 1998 when he became intrigued by the classic works at a Hamilton College alumni gathering.

Williams earned his doctorate from Columbia University, his master’s degree from Union Theological Seminary, and completed his undergraduate education at Hamilton College. He has written numerous articles and published several books on philosophy, religion, and the ancient world. He has also served as the chair of religious studies and director of Asian studies at Hamilton.

Through April 2, Utica College is featuring the American Heritage Wood Engravings 1840-1900 in the Edith Langley Barrett Fine Art Gallery in the Library Concourse. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m. The exhibit features artworks provided by Williams.

The Jackson Lunch Hour Series is sponsored by the Utica College Social Cultural Committee. Since 1979, the series has offered the community poetry, fiction, drama, and musical performances. For more information, contact Kristen Phelps at (315) 792-3028.

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