William Boaz

William G. Boaz (Bill), professor emeritus of art, Chapman University, was an authority of the art of Bali and Cambodia, an accomplished studio artist, and a distinguished art educator. Born on a West Kentucky farm on July 6, 1926, Bill received his formal art education at Murray State University and the University of Georgia. He also studied at the University of Louisville, New York University, Columbia University and the Hans Hoffman School of Fine Art. As an elementary art supervisor in Georgia in the 1950's, he formed an enduring respect for the innate aesthetic sense and freedom of children. This interest and his knowledge of the art of Southeast Asia shaped his works and his lifelong rebellion against narrow aesthetic conventions. His works have been exhibited in galleries and museums across the United States. In 1958, Bill accepted a position with the Unitarian Service Committee as art consultant with the first teacher training college in post-French Cambodia. While there he developed an art education program to reclaim for the Cambodian people their own art and culture. In recognition he was awarded the "Medaille Chevalier" from Prince Norodom Sihanouk, Chief of State. Bill joined Chapman College in 1963, teaching art on campus and on World Campus Afloat. He retired from Chapman University in 1991. Through his dedication and enthusiasm for teaching, he influenced the life path of countless students and faculty colleagues.