Bookplates

The James Penney Book Fund

July 1, 1977

This fund, established in 1977,by an anonymous donor, to honor James Penney, Professor of Art at Hamilton from 1948-1976, supports the purchase books on painting and the arts, in general.

Along with being a professor of art, James Penny was a prolific artist participating in numerous art shows. A member of Hamilton’s faculty for 28 years, he was known for his zest, humor, and compassion, communicated through his artist’s insight. Before his time at Hamilton, he received his B.F.A. degree from the University of Kansas in 1931 and lived in New York City studying at the renowned Art Students League for three years. He completed various Federal mural projects as part of the W.P.A program during the Great Depression. He continued to complete his own work while teaching art classes at the University of Kansas and Hunter, Bennett and Bennington Colleges. In 1947, he taught at the Munson-Williams-Proctor Institute in Utica, NY, and was appointed the following year to fellow in art at Hamilton. In 1974, he was named Margaret Bundy Scott Professor of Art at Hamilton. This book fund was to honor his dedication to Hamilton and contributions to the art world with his paintings both on and off the Hill.