Bill Hutson, the Jennie Brown Cook and Betsy Hess Cook Distinguished Artist-in-Residence and Associate Professor Emeritus in the Art, Art History, and Film Department, passed away from a long illness on September 21, 2022. Hutson, an internationally respected painter, came to Franklin & Marshall in 1989 and served as professor of painting for over twenty years. He brought to the College several decades of having lived abroad as an expatriate in Paris, wide-ranging travels in Europe and Africa, and longstanding relationships with other prominent contemporary artists, many of which he brought to Franklin & Marshall’s campus.
Bill Hutson’s career as an artist was distinguished. He enjoyed over twenty solo exhibitions, including the recent city-wide exhibition in his hometown of San Marcos, Texas, and participated in more than fifty group exhibitions all over the world. The artwork shown here displays only a small portion of the pieces held by the Phillips Museum. Spanning many decades, this exhibition highlights the many styles and series that Hutson is known for. Many of his artworks were inspired by the locations he lived in and the abstracted symbols give the viewer an opportunity to contemplate a deeper interpretation of the paintings.
Despite his considerable renown, Bill Hutson brought a presence of grace and humility to the Art, Art History, and Film Department. He was revered by his students and was uncompromising in his dedication to his art.
Biography adapted from tribute written by Richard K. Kent. Special thanks to the Office of the President for their support of this exhibition.