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William "Bill" Benson Professor Emeritus William "Bill" Benson entered full-time art teaching in the Dearborn, Michigan Public School system sixty-four years ago (1953) and has devoted forty-two years to the dynamic and vital field of visual arts education. His career included teaching in the states of Michigan, New York and Indiana; however, he served longest in the State of Wisconsin at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (30 years). In 1991 he received the WAEA Higher Education Art Educator of the Year. His leadership as President and Board Member of WAEA was a significant experience as WAEA member and active advocate and supporter. Bill felt this quote was the most memorable: Most memorable and encouraging quote was from a personal letter then-Superintendent of Public Instruction, Herbert Grover, sent in 1989: "The Wisconsin Art Education Association is recognized as one of the most active and productive professional organizations for art teachers in the united States and we appreciate the hard work that has led to that recognition." |
Although Bill has retired from teaching he continues to be an active artist and contributing member to the arts in the state. In the years since his retirement he's been involved with many arts endeavors including:
Here is his statement on art:
What a critical time in our culture for affirming our bedrock values and for the arts to flourish! All levels of institutions of learning need more than ever a nurturing of intellectual courage, creativity, empathy, critical insight alongside public service.
- Recently received “Volunteer of the Year” recognition from the Eau Claire Area Retired Educatior’s Association and “Honored Member” award by the Wisconsin Retired Educators Association.
- Founding member of Sculpture Tour Eau Claire, now entering its sixth year. This is an annual presentation of thirty diverse outdoor sculptures for display in the heart of the city. Initiated a connection with lifelong learning with teaching ideas for the classroom. http://www.sculpturetour.org/
- Chaired art selection committee for a major area hospital.
- Juror for Middle School “National History Day” for many years.
- “Teacher’s Guide to Printmaking”published by Davis Publications
- Participated in University of Iowa “Foil Imaging” workshops over numerous summers.
- Work selected by Federal Art in Embassies program for display in various global locations
- Visual Ministries Committee member for an area church.
- Active member of the Chippewa Valley L:earning in Retirement Program
Here is his statement on art:
What a critical time in our culture for affirming our bedrock values and for the arts to flourish! All levels of institutions of learning need more than ever a nurturing of intellectual courage, creativity, empathy, critical insight alongside public service.
