JAMES WILSON RAYEN

I knew him all to few years. I smile when I think of him.

Prof. Rayen was the reason for my taking up arts. His inspiration, encouragement, and love of art, he handed down to me. I quote him often and a little bit of me has died with his passing.

I took several studio classes with Prof. Rayen, including a senior year independent drawing class. He was always kind, thoughtful and calm. He shared his inspirations with students-- Albers, Virgil Thompson-- as well as his wise commentary.

James was a dear friend. I so regret that I lost touch with him during the past couple of years. He was my painting teacher, a colleague when I taught one year at Wellesley, and a dear friend my whole adult life.
I bought a painting in 2010 or 2011 when my sister and I visited his Framingham studio and had planned to buy another. He bought a couple of mine early in my career. One is of burnt toast. I think he had a small colored pencil drawing of a sea shell too.

I always remember Prof Rayen as a kind and thoughtful teacher who was able to tease out talent in his students, and who never, despite his own formidable talent and style as a painter, allowed ego to color his instruction. He will certainly be missed and remembered fondly.

Professor Rayen was inspirational--a remarkable talent and a kind person. I was at Wellesley when his efforts resulted in the establishment of a Studio Art major. He urged me to consider it. I ended up in a career that's far afield, but I will never forget Professor Rayen's confidence in me and his support during those years so long ago.

To Jim's Family: As the Phillips Academy Class '53 Agent, Jim and I were in regular contact. Jim will be missed as a person and a very respected teacher and artist. I remember Jim, too, as a neighbor growing up in Westchester County, NY Most sincerely, Tom Shoop (Cincinnati, OH)

Dear dear friend and highly principled individual, it is an honour and privilege to have shared a good portion of our lives with you.  We will always remember you and miss you deeply.  But we will be reminded daily by your works of art that grace our house. Thank-you James, we will miss but remember you and all your many kindnesses.  Bob & Dan

Poor James. I wish I had known him many years ago. Wonderful person, incredible artist. I was looking forward to another lunch at John Stone's Inn.