It is with a heavy heart that the Art Directors Club announces the passing of past ADC president Walter Kaprielian, who died last Thursday in his East Hampton, NY home at the age of 79. A renowned graphic designer, advertising creative director and teacher, Kaprielian served as ADC President from 1981 to 1983, presiding over the Hall of Fame inductions of such luminaries as Massimo Vignelli, Seymour Chwast and Bill Bernbach.

Starting his career as an art director at BBDO, Kaprielian went on to hold senior positions at Grey and Ketchum McLeod & Grove —later Ketchum International— where he served as CEO of their New York office. He went on to join Fearon O’Leary as a full partner, and in later years served as Chairman and Creative Director of Kaprielian O’Leary Advertising. Kaprielian also taught advertising and graphic arts classes at CUNY’s New York City Technical College in Brooklyn, and served on the Foundation Board of New York City College of Technology.

In retirement, Kaprielian remained a member of ADC, and joined his wife in volunteering for East Hampton Meals on Wheels and the Coalition for Women’s Cancers at Southampton Hospital.

Kaprielian is survived by his wife Dinaz, his three children, Victoria, Siran and John, and four grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at the Holy Martyrs Armenian Church in Bayside, Queens, on Tuesday.

Donations in Kaprielian’s memory may be sent to:

Southampton Hospital Foundation
240 Meeting House Lane
Southampton, NY
11968