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Education and Background

A native of Philadelphia, Joseph Crilley (American, b. 1920) attended the Philadelphia School of Industrial Arts (now the University of the Arts) and Temple University's art program. After serving in Europe as a paratrooper during World War II, Crilley moved to Bucks County in 1948. He taught art to generations of high school students at New Hope Solebury High School in Pennsylvania and has become well known as a photographer and painter.

Influences and Subject Matter

The subjects of Crilley's paintings are often reminiscent of scenes and events in and around New Hope, PA, Lambertville, NJ, and the Delaware River and Canal. Crilley's paintings show his interest in the tradition of the American Scene painters of the early decades of this century spearheaded by artists such as Edward Hopper and Thomas Hart-Benton. For the most part, Crilley looked to the local people and places within Bucks County and the Delaware River area for inspiration. He painted historic landmarks of the area such as the site of fellow painter Joseph Pickett's studio, the Canal bridges, the Logan Inn, and the New Hope/Ivyland Railroad. Crilley is best known for his bold palette and his dedication to genre scenes or capturing the events of everyday life. 

Ferry Street, New Hope 

(click image for enlarged view)

Photograph of Ferry Street, New Hope
late summer 1999

The painting shown at the top of the page is an excellent example of Crilley's background as a photographer whereby his compositional abilities are evident. As well, this painting called Ferry Street, New Hope is a typical and strong work by Crilley in his mature style. In this painting, he captures a small group of people strolling down picturesque Ferry Street in the borough of New Hope, PA. Crilley and his paintings are both mainstays of the Bucks County's art community. An avid sportsman, Crilley's illustrations have been published in various sporting magazines and other publications. 

Ferry Street is also included on our Art and Architecture walking tours of New Hope, PA.  You may purchase tickets here or view an online version of the tour.

Please feel free to contact me regarding the work of Joseph Crilley. 

Dr. Lori
Director, Masterpiece Technologies Inc.