Harold Blackmer Symes Jr.

Birth date: Nov 25, 1929 Death date: Oct 10, 2016

Harold B. Symes “Hal” (Age 86) Passed away on Monday, October 10, 2016 with his wife and children by his side. A graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, a Masters of Fine Arts from American University, and a Navy v Read Obituary

Wall Obituary Events Media

Mary Bartelt

390w ago

I was a student of Mr. Symes at Kenmore, then Wakefield in Arlington, graduating in 1963. There could have been no better mentor or friend. He provided an in-depth art education that easily qualified me for Richmond Professional Institute (Later VCU) and a career in artistic persuits. I will always be most grateful to him for the foundation in art, and the counseling and guidance throughout difficult teen years. My only regret is that I was not able to tell him personally the lifelong impact he had. My deepest sympathies to his family. I need not tell you the world has lost a gem. Mary Coghlan Bartelt

Bono Mitchell

483w ago

Mr. Symes was my favorite high school teacher ever! It was art classes at Wakefield from 1963-65 and he taught me to observe. His critiques were always helpful and encouraging, and emphasized individuality. It was a good start, and his approach to life and art always stuck with me. He brought his art class to my design studio sometime in the late 80s and it thrilled me to think I would be in his mind as a good example. I have thought of him MANY TIMES OVER THE DECADES, and was sorry that I didn't see the announcement in time to make the memorial service. Thanks for everything, Mr. Symes!!!
Bono Mitchell

Elizabeth Knack

483w ago

Mr. Symes was my art teacher at Wakefield 46 years ago. He was very kind to me, gave me a deeper appreciation of art and my own skills with it. I remember him fondly.

Colin Povey

483w ago

Sad to hear this. Never took an art class at Wakefield (my painting is limited to walls), but I do remember him well. Working on the yearbook, I once had shoot some pictures in his class and he was kind, friendly, and funny. And he had a great face to photograph! My condolences on your loss.

Anonymous

483w ago

Sent a Beautiful in Blue to the Symes family.

Vibrant flowers including white lilies and daisies fill a blue vase, brightening the space.

Send flowers

Ray Anderson

483w ago

As a new teacher at Wakefield coming half way through the 1968-69 school year, I got to know Hal. I left in 1971 to start the Woodlawn Program (now H-B Woodlawn), but have always treasured a painting I bought from Hal at a Wakefield faculty art show
(also bought a painting by Sophie Minor).

Hal's painting was of a harbor scene, but you might not know it as his modern, geometric style required the viewer to exercise strong imagination. When I first looked at it Hal pointed out a boat house on stilts, and how the building hugged the shore.

Orange is a major color in the painting, which is a favorite of mine. For many years it
hung in our various houses in Arlington. When we bought our second home on the Delaware eastern shore it claimed a major place in our nautical décor.

My sincere regards to Hal's family. Ray Anderson

Bill And Donna Ballou

483w ago

Created a new album - New Album Name.

Jim Vandelly

483w ago

When I taught at Wakefield (1969-97), I talked to Hal many times over those years; and again at the ARTA meetings. He and I were in different departments, but were good friends. I am truly saddened. --Jim Vandelly (Government Teacher)

Kitty Lawrence

483w ago

To my Cousins and Aunt Edith:
I am so very very sorry to know that Uncle Harold has gone. I am thankful that it was swift for his sake. I always enjoyed Unc H's brand of humor, and his guiding light in art.. . our familial legacy of creativity lived with him, and through him too, our Aunt Ollie. Such a fine artist and man. 60 years of artists must have been created or inspired through his passion. I will miss his notes and emails. I will miss him!!!
-- Kitty Lawrence, neice

Tribute Wall

Tribute Wall