Will Hollingsworth (William R. Hollingsworth, Jr.) was an artist who worked during the Art Deco Period. A graduate of the Art Institute of Chicago, Hollingsworth died by his own hand at the age of 34. We were recently inspired by his work, which graces some programs in the early 1930s. The prime specimen is the gorgeous Harvard Yale Regatta program from 1932, pictured below. In particular, the subtle and understated use of color stand out.

The Princeton Yale program from 1931, below, is another example of Hollingsworth’s work. The cover illustration is based on an original painting which was given to the writer of the best essay for a contest. Will graduated from the Art Institute in 1934 so these works were all done while he was a student.

Another example of his work, this time in an advertisement, also shows off his subtle use of color:

The Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson, where he lived, has a large collection of Hollingsworth’s work. We have a nice selection of vintage programs from various schools and universities.