Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Joseph Canzani Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Canzani
Sponsored by Jerry W McDaniel.
george michael grau
April 18, 2023
I was a freshman in the color concept class that Dean Canzani taught in 1960. His enthusiasm was contagious and his shared understanding of color carried me to a wonderful career. - (George) Michael Grau
theodore bertz
August 11, 2021
my message is simple, this man changed my life. he
made a farm kid think in terms of chroma & value, in terms of how to communicate with graphics. his color classes are classic examples of structured color.
Dane Dwartmen
July 17, 2017
Dane 746-7587
Tom Podnar
September 4, 2016
Dennis
Contact me at [email protected]
Dennis Williams
September 4, 2016
I am so out of touch, I had no idea .Dean Canzani had passed. I also took his color concept class. Of all the classes and all the homework assignments I would get during the typical week it was always his assignments I worked on the hardest. Like everyone else, the desire to have my work placed on the top shelf was paramount.
When I was fortunate enough to have my design chosen for the reverse of the bicentennial dollar coin, Dean Canzani told me before being interviewed by a local TV station to relax and just be myself and everything would go just fine (and to mention CCAD as often as possible). It was advice I still follow today.
To his family, my most sincere condolences. He was one of a kind.
Dennis R. Williams
Jacksonville, FL
Ester Jowett
December 29, 2013
I, too, thank Jerry McDaniel for making it possible to have this tribute to Dean Canzani stay online permanently. I was saddened to hear of the untimely death of the Dean's son, Vincent. What a tragedy. I hope that father and son are now reunited.
James Windram, 1964-65
December 27, 2013
What a treat and inspiration to read all of the thoughts and memories about Dean Joseph Canzani. I just came across this guest book and did not want to leave the site without recognizing the long lasting impact that Dean Canzani had on my life as an artist, simply stated a passion for excellence and inspiration.
Kathryn Schroy
November 8, 2012
I am truly BLESSED to have known Joseph Conzani. He gave me a chance to see myself as an artist and I even posed my face for him during one of his classes in 1965 which I have adorned on the wall of my home which I truly thank him for it.
Class of 1971.
Vince Canzani
November 3, 2012
This Candle if for Jerry McDaniel. His kindness has made it possible for past, present and future Artists to share their wonderful experience at CCAD. My father's legacy is not his own personal accomplishments, it's the success of the people in this book and countless others that passed through the doors at CCAD. He never asked for any personal recognition, his satisfaction came from the success of his students.
Beverly Fox
November 2, 2012
I will always remember Dean Canzani...he was a gifted speaker and a talented artist. His inspiration helped to build the college what it is today. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and many friends.
Beverly (Magnelli) Fox class of 1958
Tom Podnar
October 28, 2012
Even though it has been 42 years, Dean Canzanis' words are with me often: STUDENTS! You MUST be aware of the chromatic scintillation of colors, the moving, changing patterns of lights and darks, it is like a symphony! Spoken by the Dean with verve and panache.
Vince Canzani
October 27, 2012
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't miss my father. He was truly a Giant as an educator and mentor to so many. He lived by his own words. "It's not enough to be the best. You have to be the best and Unique"! He truly was!
Joseph Hau
October 27, 2012
" Colors just like Music with Life, we can see, feel and receiving the emotional impact." Color Concept by Dean Canzani.
john messer
October 26, 2012
My deepest sympathy for the family, sorry to here about this Vince , you talked about him a lot when I was working with you at Sears.
Armando Paz, Jr
November 22, 2008
The prophetic words of Dean Canzani still ring in my ears: " Floridian,... see beyond what you think you see! .. In everything you do, think and imagine!"- He was like a father image to me and taught me about color like no other teacher had ever done.
His wisdom, his words, helped shape me and my life and rarely do I not mention him and the many things I learned from him. I will miss you, Dean Canzani, but I will never forget you.
Donna Boyko
November 12, 2008
Joseph Canzani inspired energy and passion in me. He listened to me, advised me, and believed in me.
41 years later I still remember him vividly--passionate, compassionate, protective, nurturing, life enhancing... A wonderful man.
I'd like to send my condolences to his family.
Donna (Woodburn) Boyko
Richard Childs
October 30, 2008
Dr. Canzani was one of those people that when you met him you knew deep inside that you would never forget him. As a teacher he inspired me to go beyond the comfortable and to strive to be the best I could be. That philosophy stuck with me and as a teacher myself I strive to instill that idea in my students. Dr. Canzani you will be missed.
Lore (Rambacher) Laaman, '77
October 18, 2008
I too have immortal memories of the fiery, little Italian who could inspire both fear and awe. Do you remember his advice during freshman orientation . . . what do you do if you should have an accident with a mat knife? A necessary warning for any art student, and thus, one I never had to use!
But I also remember going home that first Thanksgiving on a Greyhound bus, and staring out the window in raptures at the bleak fields before me that no longer were just gray, but modulated by all the glorious hues now opened to one who had been taught to see for the first time. The landscape scintillated with a new life!
Gray was no longer one of those dead colors . . . Dean Canzani made me eager to see what he described as his vision of the perfect sanctum: a studio painted a dark dove gray and illuminated by heavenly rays through a stained glass window to cast a palette of shades across its canvas and, I’m sure, the sweet strains of his violin would be lilting on air. Dear Dean, may you have found just such a place with the saints and angels.
God bless your loved ones at this time.
John W. Sapp
October 11, 2008
Joseph Canzani was an inspiration to all who were lucky enough to be under his tutelage. He loved the Arts and taught with passion and humor and I will always remember him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
After a trip to Canada, Niagara Falls in June of 2007 coupled with a drive along Lake Erie, my wife and I decided it was time to extend our trip and venture on to Columbus and visit CCAD. When we arrived at CCAD we were introduced to Nanette Hayakawa who was a most gracious host and gave us a wonderful tour. I was so pleased to hear that Mr. Canzani was alive and well at 92.
I was saddened to hear of the untimely deaths of Mary Kinney who was always so very dedicated and helpful, and Fred Coe who was a very talented artist, friend and roommate during my third year at CCAD. To top off a wonderful visit Nanette gave me Mr. Canzani’s address and telephone number. The following represents the essence of a wonderful telephone conversation, and a short note I sent with a Christmas card to Mr.Canzani:
“Wow 92”! I should hope to be as sharp and active as you if I live to be 92 years young…It was wonderful to go down memory lane with you (Tuesday, 12/17/07) 46 years after my graduation from CCAD (class of 1961). During those 4 years you were always there with guidance and words of encouragement when many students became frustrated and/or discouraged. Those one-on-one conversations with you were always uplifting and meant the world to me. I wanted to share with you how much your creativity and caring style of teaching influenced your students…and how you’re nurturing encouraged our creativity, and how much you and the CCAD faculty influenced this small town kid from Hagerstown, Maryland.
I had the opportunity to enjoy a fulfilling 35 year career in the graphic arts as a designer, art director and typography and design manager due to the knowledge and guidance provided by Dean Canzani and the CCAD staff.
John W. Sapp
CCAD class of 1961
Thaddeus Brejwo
October 9, 2008
It is wonderful to see President Canzani's passion for the arts and his teachings instilled among so many people he shared with. I recall and practice in my design work, his ideal of "truth of materials". He will continue to live and teach through all of us.
Mark Cardwell
October 6, 2008
I was out of country and am just getting the news. I am beyond sad. I remember President Canzani's color/design class vividly. I remember our perfect circle experience still with awe. Thank you President Canzani for teaching me, all of us what art is.
Valerie Wright-Martinez
September 25, 2008
Dean Canzani shared with us his knowledge of color. He inspired us and awed us. He opened our eyes to view our surroundings, our world in a completely new light. For this and for CCAD, I thank him.
He will be missed by all.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Patty Wiseman
September 24, 2008
Thank you Maria, for sharing your grandfather with Jenni and Rachel.
Priscilla Marshall
September 24, 2008
I was greatly saddened to hear of Mr. Canzani's passing. While I knew the day was coming soon, his death leaves a hole that no one else could fill. I have a lot of fond memories of "Dean" Canzani as was his title for most of the nine years I was associated with CCAD first as a student (class of '76) and then as an Admissions Assistant.
I remember sitting in trepidation in freshmen year Color Concept to see if my color assignment would make it onto "the rack" where Mr. Canzani placed the individual assignments that he was pleased with. Also, I will always recall the morning that, with one smooth swoop, he drew a perfect circle on the chalkboard at the start of his lecture: the entire auditorium of students burst into spontaneous applause and then laughed at his sheepish explanation that "some mornings everything works".
As the first female to be assigned to the woodshop for work-study hours, and the first female to be selected for the "Dean's Crew", I always felt Mr. Canzani took a special interest in me and how I held my own with the male "bums" (a term he used affectionly) in the shop. He frequently picked me to work on one of his special projects or assignments, which is how I ended up on a ladder for a week in the office he shared with Miss Kenny. Because Miss Kenny was a heavy smoker, the walls had to be scrubbed before getting a new coat of paint. As I scrubbed the walls, the only sounds in the room were of rustling papers and the occasional question from Mr. Canzani to Miss Kenny concerning some aspect of the College's operation. Eventually, Miss Kenny would need to leave the building to visit another office and as soon as he heard the front door latch close, Mr. Canzani would pop up from his desk and walk over to my ladder to chat about my progress, ask about my parents back in Maryland or some other small topic of conversation. As soon as he heard the outer door open, he would hurry back to his desk and resume his paperwork before Miss Kenny got back to her desk. To make it even funnier, of course Miss Kenny did the same exact thing when Mr. Canzani left the building.
It has been many years since I left CCAD and moved to Denver, Colorado. Now retired, every success I have had in my career was shaped by the excellent education in color and design and the high standards of excellence I absorbed at CCAD.
Mr. Canzani, I thank you.
Roland White
September 11, 2008
I will never forget the first time I shook Dean Canzani's hand. It was firm and even had a smile to its feel. I was part of a new group and had been awarded a scholarship which he approved. I will always be grateful and honored to have known him, briefly but with long lasting heart felt respect.
Theodore Bertz
September 8, 2008
Joe Canzani was a catalyst forcing the mediocre to become exceptional. His color concept class has been with one Ohio farm boy his entire life. I shall never forget his teaching.
Ted Bertz '62
Douglas Riddick
September 8, 2008
Students will remember Dean Joseph Canzani for his caring attitude which will remain with us all of our lives. I don't believe there has ever been another educator who has inspired so much love and respect from their students. I would like to express my condolences to members of his family.
Stephen McInturff
September 7, 2008
I thank Mr. Canzani for his passion, his teachings, his inspiration, his intensity and love for art. All of which I hope that I can continue to give back to my students and they to theirs. CCAD will always be Joseph Canzani's
Craig Carlisle
September 7, 2008
My heart goes out to all the family and friends of Mr. Canzani. He inspired, he challenged, he cared. I am grateful to have his determination for perfection within all the art I create today. (Class of 1988)
George Vakaleris
September 7, 2008
I still remember vividly the stern expression on Mr. Canzani's face as he critiqued our work in his color concept class. It was not easy to please him. He was a real perfectionist as every artist should strive to be. As a CCAD student of the 80's, I had total admiration and respect for him which I will always have no matter how much time passes.
Romaine Stawowy
September 6, 2008
CCAD wouldn't be what it is today without Dean Canzani. What a truly exceptional person. How lucky I was to know him as a teacher.
Alice Gossett
September 6, 2008
I was a student at CCAD in 1975-76. I remember Mr. Canzani's kindness one year as myself and a small group of students asked for an empty room during the lunch hour. It was for the purpose of opening up to the students a place to pray or read or have Bible studies and discussions. Though, it had not been done before, he graciously allowed us that priviledge and I will never forget his strength of character and his kindness to us. God's Blessings to the Canzani family. Sincerely, Alice Gossett (formerly Strock) Temecula, CA
Amy Pennell
September 6, 2008
I arrived at CCAD from out of town the day of orientation. As I parked my car, I notice two older people standing beside their car an man and a woman, commenting on their flat tire. Never having changed a tire, but had seen my father do it, I offered to change theirs because they were dressed in business attire. At first the man refused, but I persisted and he finally relented. After the job was completed, he said, "how could such a nice young girl know how to do this?" I said it was nothing and he then proceeded to comment on the design of my clothing. I thought..... strange... only to an hour later see him walk up to the podium in the big room upstairs and deliver his famous welcome speech. My mouth was agaped. That day and his words of wisdom have replayed in my mind many times over. "Never go into the discovery of Art for the love of success, but discover art for the love of art itself and there you will find eternal success. The joining of colors will always bring new discoveries. That is just one of my memories of Dean Canzani. -Amy Huffman Pennell-1985
Emory Au, '87
September 6, 2008
I am truly honored and blessed to have studied under President Canzani. There's not a day goes by without me drawing upon some aspect of color or design principles that I learned from him. My heartfelt condolences to the Canzani family.
Christopher Maslon
September 5, 2008
"A circle, a circle , then you think ah, no square, square, then rectangle.."
These are the words left to me by Mr.Canzani. He showed me that the artist can change his mind.
For the family, I had a chance also to meet Mellisa during a summer break. My deep feelings for all the family and for CCAD.
Joe Suroviec
September 5, 2008
As the recipient of the outstanding senior award in 1984 I had the chance to shake his hand when I walked on stage. He leaned forward when I took the award from dean Kinney and whispered, " I knew that you were going to be the winner but knew I would not pronounce your name properly, so I had Frank Hoffelt do it" I had lunch with him in the small cafeteria underneath Mr. Robinsons painting studio once and he commented on how nicely I had arranged the food on my plate by color.He told me that he does that all the time.I acted like I did it all the time but had just lucked into a nice arrangement by accident.Only he would have talked about the color of the food on my plate and be serious about it. As a professional artist I am always thankful of my education at CCAD and also thankful that we had a person like Mr. Canzani to guide us on that long road to color.I will remember him always and be thankful I had a chance to spend a few one on one moments with him...He is missed but NEVER forgotten.
Holly Blake
September 5, 2008
Dean Canzani was a memorable, larger than life teacher. Lessons learned in his Color Concept classes remain firmly etched in my brain - as does his undeniable passion for art. He lives on in all of us who were his students.
Christy Bull/Hooper
September 5, 2008
My deepest sympathies to the family of Mr. Conzani. He was my Design professor at CCAD during the 80's. It was in his class that I finally "got it" when it comes to what makes a great design verses a boring design. I will always remember his words. "Harmony is the Essence of Variety" and how he related this to everything, not just art but music and simple nature. I have using this learned concept in my designs and everyday life for over 20 years now. It impresses the clients to no end! I've also passed along this concept to my artisit sons as they are entering into the design field too. They are wowing their teachers and winning contests right and left. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to have known and learned from him.
Kathryn Schroy
September 5, 2008
My fondest memories is getting the opportunity to know Dean Conzani and how he was in class especially after drawing a picture of me which he autographed back in 1965. I look at it and think of him often. I will miss him!
James Foeller ('84)
September 5, 2008
As many have revealed here, Joe Canzani's lessons were not limited to the classroom, the college or a period of time. They continue to reveal themselves in both our careers and our lives. He planted ideals that will carry his legacy through generations of artists.
I still remember how I felt when he selected an assignment of mine in color concept and said "now that's nice." I felt like I had really taken a step forward in my education.
His presence here will truly be missed. My sympathy goes out to his family.
Cindy (Gerhardt) Horn (1979)
September 5, 2008
My thoughts are with the Canzani family, we will miss him. Joe's passion and care for students and for art touched many people, and that is a wonderfully creative act. CCAD was the happiest time for me. Dave is right, Joe used to look at us and squint, (and point a finger) when he was trying to make a point to some green art students. I miss that time, and now I will miss Joe. I remember how his voice sounded in lectures. (You don't know what you've got 'til it's gone.) And integrity, he had bunches of it. My thoughts are with you.
Joyce Eicholtz-Warnock
September 5, 2008
"Shape is a symphony created by man, inspired by God"--notes I took in President Canzani's Color class and still have. Sometimes years go by before you realize the influence someone has had on your life. I think people who met Joseph Canzani knew immediately he would have a special importance on life's path. Fond memories of him will last long.
Mindy Stauch (Newman)
September 5, 2008
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald D. Newman
To a wonderful man whose artists and their influences are seen everywhere!
Denise Torrance
September 5, 2008
As I watched my husband read the news of this tragic loss to the art world - I realized how deeply this man touched us all. What an honor it was to have been a student of such a loving vibrant soul. All his words of wisdom still reasonate in my head. How did Joe get to be so old? I never thought of him as old - just "all knowing". My heart pains to think of CCAD without him. I will never forget such a GREAT man.
michelle raubenolt
September 5, 2008
I am thankful for Joseph Canzani's efforts in helping create an exemplary art and design college. People like Joseph Canzani make it possible for artists and designers to reach their full potential and establish a name for themselves. CCAD taught me to believe in myself, to expand on my ideas, and to realize my dreams. I have great respect for the former president of our school and hope that his legacy lives on.
Chris Cheetham
September 5, 2008
Dean Conzani was the passion, the innovative force that WAS CCAD. His comments and critiques always added ‘extra color’ to any class he taught. Whenever I recall my years at CCAD, I will think fondly of our former President, Joseph Conzani. May God bless his family.
Lisa Valore
August 28, 2008
Joe Canzani was an "Atlantic City boy" as my aunt Florence Valore Miller phrased it. When I applied to CCAD in the early 70s, my aunt gave him a call. Never found out if it hindered or helped. My dad passed earlier this year at age 93, and Florence a few years ago. They are all missed. It was a great generation.
Pete Williams
August 28, 2008
I am grateful to Dean Canzani for his guiding hand in my education. I think of him often as I work. His determination to make his students truly great is what I remember most. Please accept my condolences.
[class of 1986]
Craig & Deborah Killy/moore
August 24, 2008
The commitment & depth of Joseph Canzani's ideas w/ both education and administration made Joseph Canzani a unique & true artist. An artist that adds something to civilization which he did in applied and expressive terms the students of Canzani were brought into reality. His approach was individual and true. (Remembering Canzani passing color theory art lessons like fresbee into the auditorium). Deborah & I meant (1969) at CCAD in addition we both were perparred for our careers & confident due directly to Joseph Canzani. He will always be a model to us and we will miss him. God bless.
Fred Pepera
August 19, 2008
I was sad to hear of Dean Canzani's passing. He always inspired me to do my best work. He truly was CCAD. I still use today what he taught about color and design. I was very fortunate to have been his student. 76'
Steve Wheeler
August 19, 2008
When I first attended CCAD in the early 1970s, it was a collection of old houses and ramshackle buildings accumulated over the years. Now it is an attractive campus with wonderful new buildings and a feeling of permanence. And a soaring sculpture proclaiming "ART" to the world.
Whatever the external appearance, the essence of CCAD was, and is, the personality of Dean Canzani. His passion for art and insistence on excellence infused the students and instructors. All of us received a bit of the reflected glow of his intensity.
I feel privileged to have been one of his students.
Paul Rehg
August 19, 2008
What a great man and teacher Mr. Canzani was. He really brought out the best in all his students. I fondly remember his color concept class that I took in 1987. Truly inspiring! Not many people in this world have the kind of far reaching impact that he had on the world. God bless his family
Ben Mahan
August 18, 2008
It has been hard for me to come up with words to describe how I feel about President Canzani.
First I would like to send my condolence to the Canzani family and all the students that cared so much for him.
I grew up on a small dairy farm and always dreamed of becoming an artist. President Canzani's dedication to excellence and love of art gave me and many other students the inspiration to pursue art. I remember working all night to get my homework finished for his class, so not to let him down. He expected the best effort and made you want to give it. I only hope that as a teacher I can give back just a little of what he gave me.
His spirit and memory live on in me and the many other students around the world that he touched.
Thank you Joe.
Douglas Bowles
August 18, 2008
My sincere condolences to Dean Canzani's Family. I fondly remember my "Color Concept" classes.
Colleen (Schmidkons)Gimben
August 18, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Susan Rosebrook
August 18, 2008
My deepest sympathies.
Margaret Bixler-Foster
August 18, 2008
What a great man he was, those of us who had him as a teacher gained more than knowledge of color. Joseph Canzani has made a difference in the lives of so many and I know I am not alone in feeling blessed and so fortunate for the time spent at CCAD.
Gaynelle Walker Sloman
August 17, 2008
I'll never forget Dean Canzani's Color Concept class, taught many moons ago in the auditorium of The Columbus Museum of Art.
He had such a passion for art and for teaching. I remember his ability to evoke the best from his students. You wanted to show him that you had what it took! And from that, one of my Color Concept homework assignments ended up hanging in the American Embassies in Ceylon and Haiti, as part of the "Art in the Embassies" program!!
My deepest sympathy to the Canzani family and to everyone he inspired to be the best you could be. What a master and a true artist for the ages.
Princess Phyllis Petty Castle (84)
August 15, 2008
I cherish what I learned in President Canzani’s Color Concept class. What he taught me about color is with me today. My condolence to the Canzani family. (Class of 1984)
Teri Kent
August 15, 2008
Joe Canzani's thoughts about the world, the artist, leadership, courage, strength, structure, and old fashioned hard work made a tremendous impact on all the creative minds fortunate to cross paths with him. I am proud to have been only one on the campus of CCAD.
Class of 1996
Dean Mitchell
August 15, 2008
I can still remember my first day in his color concept class. He made you feel artists are important and had a larger role in shaping our world . This was a great truth that he brought to me as and American Artist . This was a great man sent to us from heaven from the living God. I was blessed to have crossed the path of a man who touch so many. With Love and Respect your student always, Dean Mitchell
George Castaldo
August 15, 2008
It was a life time ago. I was a Italian kid fresh out of Catholic School in NY and on my way to a new world in Columbus Ohio.The Nuns said that it was better than Viet Nam. Joseph Canzani kept me on the righ path and opened my eye to the wonderful world that was all around me. To this day I repeat his words to my own son that "less is more." My deepest condolences to the family.From 1969 to 1973 he was my mentor.
Chris-Mai Dzuong
August 14, 2008
We have lost a great leader, instructor, mentor, and friend. I remember how Mr. Joseph Canzani would visit with us in our classrooms, hallways, and at the Annual Exhibitions. We will miss him and he will forever be a source of my inspiration. I am so very grateful for the scholarships made possible through his diligent efforts. I am a successful designer today because of passionate and compassionate artists like him.
My condolence to the family.
Our color wheel is our template to life.
Class of 1996.
Jay Lefkowitz
August 14, 2008
My condolence to the family.
What a blessing Joe was to the planet. I really enjoyed being his student and work daily with color and can thank him for making it so easy to use. He is in my heart and will always be one of my favorites. His patience was very helpful to me and I adored his class act.
Bob Bender
August 14, 2008
Joe Canzani was a gift to all of us who had the privilege of being one of his students. He was a very rare and special person. He brought his vision, his passion, his intellect, his work ethic, and his dedication to excellence to Columbus in 1949. Beginning with 17 students his leadership grew CCAD to over 1200 students when he retired 46 years later.
I know I speak for so many when I say he was one of the most important influences of our lives. I feel so blessed that I was lucky enough to have had him as a mentor.
My prayers are with Vince and his family.
Laura Schreiber
August 14, 2008
Dean Canzani, I believe it was your intense artistic intelligence many of us feared, but it was your smile and gentle encouragement that I have never forgotten. I met your niece Cathy, and thanks to her I was able to reconnect...this time receiving inspiration from your painting. I know you wished you had started sooner, but what beauty you created!
Thank you, you have left a lasting impression on my life. Now you are a part of the Beauty you helped foster on this earth. God Bless.
Helen, Jane, Marty, Mandy, Mary Hoffelt
August 14, 2008
As children, we were privileged to be part of your family--to be Vasa's painting models, to play with Vince in your yard, to spill coke on your jacket (you were so patient with us!). As students, we were privileged to be part of your work--you instilled in us your ethics and aesthetics. As adults, we are privileged to be part of the legacy you built with Mary and our father and your other instructors--we carry part of you and your passion around with us every day. Our deepest sympathy to Vince and your family.
Steve Caler, 1976
August 14, 2008
When a friend informed me of Joe Canzani's death I was immediately flooded with nostalgic memories and powerful lessons. "Blue is an angel. Make it fly." Certainly Joe didn't say that. What can I do with that?
It was years before those words would powerfully resonate. Canzani's teachings were far more than split complimentary triads and the musings of Munsell. Sure they were about scintillation and chromatic intensity and "the secrets of color lie within the grays" and the "mysteries of yellowness thereof."
At the heart of it Canzani was a mystro. He allowed each of us to write our own music but more importantly, he introduced us to our muses. He opened a door to a strange and unbelievable new world, not with what he said but with how he said it. Canzani demonstrated that the process itself was the solution. It was through the struggle, through the terrible wrestling with his words that led to trial, experimentation, adjustments, beginning again. The willingness to discover may have been his greatest lesson. The lesson teaches us that the creative process takes courage and that all of us can indeed lose the blindfold.
I recall two shadowy figures, dark and brooding, heads bowed, silent, making their way down an icey sidewalk to the Christopher Inn. I often thought that Mary Kinney and Joe Canzani appeared strangely detached. Although both were buried in mountains of administration, through the dark iconic figures glimmered the artist, the brilliant spirit that built both a college and character. As icons present themselves it us up to each of us to wring the essence from them. We will all miss you, Joe, and indeeed blue will fly forever like an angel in all of us.
Carolyn schindler
August 14, 2008
Your in your home with all the saints and angels it has to be more beautiful and your at pease with the lord jesus christ .
Dorenda Crager Watson
August 13, 2008
Mr. Canzani was one of the most truthful people I have ever known. Thank you for the honesty and wisdom in your teaching...I truly appreciated it and passed it down to my students when I became a teacher.
To his family...thank you for sharing him with so many that needed him.
Grant Urie
August 13, 2008
Thanks for being both the hammer and the anvil that helped forge many youthful dreams into reality.
Ralph V. Offidani
August 13, 2008
My cousin Joe was the smartest and the best at everything he did, I thank him for all he taught me.
God Bless him, in his new art world.
Cindy Kaer
August 13, 2008
Joseph Canzani was an inspiration. He taught color with passion and humor and I will always remember him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Rebecca Sommer
August 13, 2008
CCAD in the early 70's was my dream come true of art schools, with the secluded courtyard for sketching vine covered walls while sitting on ancient stone benches and pondering the immediate color concept assignment.
Dean Canzani's creation of an art world that was dedicated to opening our eyes and developing our talents is a legacy that I am proud to have shared in and will continue to grow with.
Anytime is too soon to say farewell to one who has made an impact upon us. Living a life dedicated to art honors those years of being within the Canzani fold. May peace be with his family.
Nifodora (Elias) Krumrie
August 13, 2008
Joseph V. Canzani was the first of many larger then life, vibrant, passionate and truly committed artistic personalities that life has afforded me the opportunity to behold. He has truly touched generations of aspiring minds and I can gratefully say that I was one of them. Just a few of the fruits of the seeds he planted throughout his lifetime are visible within the pages of this Guest Book. Dean Canzani will indeed live on in our stories and in our hearts.
Lisa Reeder
August 13, 2008
My sincere condolences to Dean Canzani's Family. I fondly remember my "Color Concept" classes. We would file into the museum auditorium, hand in our assignments and anxiously await Dean Canzani's placement of our work...all the while hoping it would be the "top rack". One of my favorite words that he used was "scintillate" and I can still hear his pronunciation of it. The dictionary says; "to sparkle, to emit quick flashes as if throwing off sparks...to be animated and brilliant".
What a fitting description of Dean Canzani.
Lisa Dodds Reeder
Class of 1974
Michelle Ruskin-Robinson
August 13, 2008
My deepest condolences. I remember my time in class with Mr. Canzani very well. I will always think of CCAD and Joseph Canzani synonymously. 1987 Graduate
Patrik Norstrom
August 13, 2008
You will always live in my heart and my work. Thank You for beleave in me and giving me the chance to live life as an artist. Graduate of 1990.
Tim Campbell
August 12, 2008
I can still feel the anxiety from walking into Mr. Canzani's class and wondering if this was the day he would call me forward to discuss my work. When the moment finally arrived, I was relieved to find out that he was pleased with what I had done. His final comment on my piece was that he didn't believe God was truly happy with the color orange. I can't help but wonder if this topic has come up in conversation yet. God bless you Mr. Canzani. It was a privilege to be a part of your life's work.
Ola Osanyinjobi
August 12, 2008
I received this news with a heavy heart. Mr. Canzanni was the most compassionate man I've ever met, he was always full of encouraging words and never refused to assist a student when called upon. I appreciate the advises I got from him and Dean Kinney back in the early 80's. He always lent a helping hand when I needed one. I shall never forget his kindness and I feel truly blessed to have known such a wonderful human being. You would have proud to know that I later returned to earn a Bachelor's degree in Time-Based Media Studies. May God bless your soul. Rest in peace!
Jeff Stahler ('77)
August 12, 2008
Joe Canzani left an impression on me as I'm sure he did with so many of those who knew him. He loved his scintillating colors. His legacy will continue at CCAD
Stephen Bright
August 12, 2008
You are one of the most influential persons in my life. Thank you for your inspiration and vision. I still have more to give thanks to your personal touch.
Celeste Hardy
August 12, 2008
Joseph V. Canzani was an extremely passionate teacher who cared about his students. He was a great inspiration to me. He will be greatly missed. Class of 1975.
Bob Rhoads
August 12, 2008
A LESSON IN "SEEING"
“Look down” he said.
“Tell me what you see.”
“The sidewalk” I said.
“Look again” he said.
“It’s broken” I said.
“Look more closely” he said.
“I see shapes and colors and…...”
“Now, you’ve just begun to see.
Look again when it’s raining,
come back when it’s snowing,
look very hard and
you’ll see much more”.
Three decades later
we met again. His voice was
softer and his hand less firm,
but the gleam in his eye
was the same.
“Do you remember the sidewalk” he asked.
“Of course” I said.
“They paved over it” he said.
“Could they not see?” I asked.
"Ah, but we can, can't we" he said with a wink.
Conversations between Joe Canzani
and Bob Rhoads, his student in 1960
and still learning from him in 2008.
Steve Hill
August 12, 2008
From my class notes—Color Concept I, 1971: Everything went to Hell in the past, except Art—Joseph Canzani
Villa Angela Care Center
August 12, 2008
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Dave Allen, '70
August 12, 2008
I was a green kid from the country the day I first met Dean Canzani, as he was called then. Fortunately I arrived at his office for my entrance appointment totally unaware of how naive I was. We talked and then the Dean asked to see my portfolio. I handed him a folder I had bought on the way to Columbus containing a few pencil and ink drawings. He looked inside side and said, “This is it?” I assured him it was. He looked at my meager offering, shrugged and said, “Well, you can tell a Michelangelo just by looking at a drawing of a toe.”
I was accepted and spent the next four and a half years trying to catch up with everyone else – and in awe of Dean Canzani. He was inspiring and incredible. I loved every minute I spent at CCAD.
Because he saw something in that green kid's work, he said yes. That yes has lead to a life filled with art and design and far different than it would have ever been otherwise. I am deeply indebted on so many levels to Dean Canzani and the school he built. I was fortunate to be just one of the thousands he touched.
Thom Misiak ('72)
August 12, 2008
Dean Canzani, that’s how I remember him, was truly an inspiration in my life. The time spent sitting in his color concept class worrying about how he would react to my solution to the assignment was one of the great learning moments in my life. He taught me how to accept criticism and use it to learn.
I am forever grateful to Mr. Canzani for the time I spent at CCAD. I have always felt he had created a world-class institution in the heart of downtown Columbus.
Jennifer Sullivan(Class of '91)
August 12, 2008
I am proud to say I completed my education at CCAD--Canzani College of Art and Design.
I never was blessed with him as my teacher, but honored to be a part of his legacy.
Jennifer Neher
August 12, 2008
I am more sad than words can express at the passing of Mr. Canzani. I learned so much from him during my years at CCAD. His last gift to our graduating class in 1989 was an address that cautioned us and our parents to be patient. Our careers would take time to establish. He was correct it took two years to the day to finally get my break, but I never gave up thanks to all his encouragement. He taught us to be strong and believe in ourselves even in the face of the harshest critics.
Julie Neher
August 12, 2008
Thank you— Dean Canzani for your inspiration and dedication to CCAD and your students. I will miss you. Class of 81
Rick Yearick
August 12, 2008
Joseph Canzani was an inspiration to countless students, teachers and so many people. I first met him when I enrolled in an adult evening painting class at the age of fifteen. He took the brush out of my hand, worked on my canvas for only a few moments and said, "that's how you paint!" His presence was always filled with strength and vigor. My four years at CCAD shaped the direction I would take in art. Mr. Canzani was the single greatest influence in my career. His efforts were relentless in the progress and development of CCAD. Thank you Mr. Canzani!
Rick Yearick, Class of 59
Gregory Hogrefe ('86)
August 12, 2008
Joseph V. Canzani was a great inspiration to all who ever met or had the priviledge to be taught by him. He lived by being dedicated to the arts and his passion for art now lives on through all of those he inspired during his life. He was a great man who will truly be missed by the entire arts community.
Matt Franklin
August 12, 2008
Although I did not attend CCAD, I did consider myself a student and dear friend of Mr. Canzani's. I have always felt blessed to have known him. He always took a deep interest in my welfare and that of my family. Joe saw me through some tough times but always insisted that I would become out a better man through my tribulations. His wisdom, kindness, faith, profound loyalty and love for family and absolute passion for art, CCAD and life will resonate with me forever. May we all be so fortunate to have a legacy such as his. My thoughts and prayers to Maria, Vince, Cheryl and his closest of friends.
Showing 1 - 100 of 216 results
Make a Donation
in Joseph Canzani's name
Memorial Events
for Joseph Canzani
How to support Joseph's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Joseph Canzani's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
