Howard Somers Conant

Howard Somers Conant long-time resident of Arizona and esteemed art educator, passed away on February 20, 2011 in Tucson, AZ. He was born in Beloit, WI on May 5, 1921. He was Chair of the Art Department and Art Collection at New York University for 21 years and Head of the Department of Art at the University of Arizona for 10 years. He had a noteworthy career in art education diplomacy abroad and received the prestigious 25th Anniversary Medal for Distinguished Service to Education in Art, bestowed upon him by Lady Bird Johnson at the White House. He pioneered one of the first children's television programs, "Fun to Learn about Art" on WBEN Buffalo and was featured in Who's Who in America for many years. He was a prolific writer, speaker, and painter and served as First Lieutenant in the US Army Air Forces. Dr. Conant is survived by his beloved wife Virginia Conant; his daughter, Judith Steinbach; his grandchildren, Tara Steinbach, Shana Steinbach, Danielle Garrett, Scott Conant, Trevor Conant, and great-grandson, Ryder Garrett. He is preceded in death by his cherished wife, Florence Conant and his treasured son, Jeffrey Conant. The family suggests that contributions be made to the University of AZ Art Department, NYU Steinhardt Art Department, or The National Endowment for the Arts in Dr. Conant's name. Arrangements by EVERGREEN MORTUARY.