LAMBERTVILLE: Jim Hamilton gives back to his communities

On Sunday , the public is invited to this one-time, one-of-a-kind auction — “A Lifetime of Art” — in the courtyard of Hamilton’s Grill Room at 8 Coryell St.

   LAMBERTVILLE — Jim Hamilton, an iconic member of the arts community in New Hope and Lambertville, will give the ultimate gift back to the communities he loves by auctioning his lifetime of accumulated illustrations to benefit the restoration of Ely Park in Lambertville and the New Hope Arts Center of New Hope.
   This collection of artworks includes a number of Hamilton’s scenic art designs for the Broadway stage and many architectural projects.
   On Sunday (May 19), the public is invited to this one-time, one-of-a-kind auction — “A Lifetime of Art” — in the courtyard of Hamilton’s Grill Room at 8 Coryell St., Lambertville. The preview of the artwork is at 1:30 p.m.
   New Hope Mayor Larry Keller will conduct the 3 p.m. auction.
   Mr. Hamilton believes in the saying — “When you get there . . . remember where you came from.”
   The artwork spans many years and includes a myriad of design projects and dreams.
   Hamilton’s designs often were often brought to completion with the collaboration of well-known artists: Robert Rabinowitz, creator of Beatlemania; Leo Kerz, producer of ‘Rhinoceros’ starring Zero Mostel; Matt Rue, local architect for over 40 years, and Peter Larkin of ‘Dancin’ and Bob Fosse fame.
   There are idea sketches, pastels, pen-and-ink drawings, elevations and oils from Broadway shows where Mr. Hamilton was responsible for the stage sets and for many, the lighting design.
   There also will be renderings reflecting his designs of local New Jersey landmarks, including the Porkyard, The Boat House, Hamilton’s Grill Room, Rick’s Restaurant, the Swan Bar & Hotel, Brian’s Restaurant, the Wine Cellar at Lambertville Station, The Lambertville House and the Stockton Market.
   In Bucks County he designed The Raven, Mother’s and the Pineville Tavern.
   Mr. Hamilton plans to be on hand to add some quips and reminiscences from a remarkable life lived.