Passings: Printmaker Kei Hayano taught visual arts at York

close up of Keiichi Hayano

Keiichi (Kei) Hayano, professor emeritus in York’s Faculty of Fine Arts, died unexpectedly in Toronto Keiichi Hayano head shoton Dec. 25. He was 81.

Professor Hayano was a printmaker whose works were exhibited and are represented in private and corporate collections in Canada, the United States and England.

Right: Keiichi Hayano

In retirement, he was researching the work of the Japanese printmaker Shiko Munakata, a project that took him to back to his native Japan.

After earning a diploma from the Alberta College of Art, and a BFA and MFA from the University of Michigan, the young Hayano started work in 1971 as a studio technician in York’s fledgling Department of Visual Arts. Two years later, he was promoted to assistant professor. He retired in 1994.

The cherished partner of Alberto Armand, he is also survived by family in Japan.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Prof. Hayano’s life will take place at his home at a date to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mount Sinai Hospital Foundation, 1001-522 University Ave. Toronto, ON M5G 1W7.

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