Bruce Wands, 72

Bruce Wands, 72, of Verona, passed away on July 6, 2022. Born October 22, 1949 in Montclair, he was the youngest of three children. He is survived by his brother, David, and his niece, Rebecca O’Brien.

Bruce dedicated his life to art, music and creativity, and was a pioneer in developing computer graphics.  He was an accomplished artist, writer, musician and educator. He earned his BA degree from Lafayette College in 1971 and a Master of Science degree from Syracuse University in 1976. As an educator, Bruce was the founder of the BFA Computer Art Department at the School of Visual Arts in New York, and later chair of the MFA Computer Arts Department until his retirement. He was curator and director of the New York Digital Salon.  His greatest satisfaction was teaching and mentoring students, helping them launch their professional careers worldwide.

Bruce’s digital art, writing, music and photography explored the relationship between contemporary art, mathematics, new forms of narrative and the creation of contemporary American folk art. He authored two books, “Art of the Digital Age” and “Digital Creativity,” as well as dozens of articles on digital art. Bruce lectured, performed and exhibited his creative work in the United States and internationally. He was the first musician to give a live performance over ISDN lines on the Internet in 1992. He was also an avid gardener and had a deep appreciation for nature.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bruce’s memory to the Verona Rescue Squad (12 Church Street, Verona, NJ 07044) would be greatly appreciated. A celebration of his life will take place in November 2022. For updates and to leave a condolence message, please visit proutfuneralhome.com.

Nick Lambert, chair of the Computer Arts Society, wrote this tribute to Wands.