James Hilleary (B.1924) Estate

Artist Statement:

"Music and art were equally influential in my early development. As a child I displayed a special talent for piano and drawing, which were encouraged by my amateur artist and musician father.

I never considered a career in art. Music was a possibility. In high school, I played with orchestras, in clubs and on radio, and enjoyed the experience. However, along the way I developed an interest in architecture. My education was interrupted by World War II and after three years in the army, I returned to study architecture, gain subsequent experience, and eventually establish my own practice.

Eventually, a museum director who saw my paintings pointed out that my independent development paralleled the direction of a group referred to as the Washington Color School."