William E. Ward (1922-2004) was an artist and chief designer at the Cleveland Museum of Art from 1957-1993. Born in Cleveland to Lura D. and Edward Ward he was educated at Western Reserve University, the Cleveland Institute of Art, and Columbia University. During World War II he served in the U.S. army terrain intelligence unit in India and Ceylon, where he developed a life long interest in southeast asian art. After his military service Mr. Ward worked in the education and oriental art departments of the museum prior to being named head designer. He also was a professor of caligraphy and watercolor at the Cleveland Institute of Art. As a practicing artist he exhibited in both solo and group exhibitions throughout Ohio and other states. Ward was married to internationally renowned fiber artist Evelyn Svec. Their private art collection was featured in a number of exhibitions at CIA and CMA.
